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Curtis Blaydes has stated he respects Josh Hockett's fighting ability despite not appreciating Hockett's personality and pre-fight behavior. Blaydes acknowledged that dismissing Hockett's skills would be insincere and hypocritical. While Blaydes made clear he doesn't enjoy Hockett's trash talk and gimmicks outside the cage, he emphasized that once they're in the octagon with gloves on, he has full respect for his opponent. Blaydes explained that after competing against someone, it would be disingenuous to claim they can't fight. The comments reflect a separation between personal feelings and professional respect for an opponent's abilities.
AgentMMA.com
