Curtis Blaydes expresses respect for Tai Tuivasa despite pre-fight antics

Curtis Blaydes has stated he respects Tai Tuivasa despite all the trash talk and behavior before their fight. Blaydes explained it would be insincere and hypocritical to say otherwise, acknowledging that Tuivasa can genuinely fight. While Blaydes admits he doesn't like Tuivasa's personality or antics, he respects him as a competitor inside the octagon. He rhetorically asked how he could not respect someone who is standing across from him with gloves on. The post notes that Tuivasa broke Blaydes' orbital bone during their encounter. Blaydes' sportsmanlike comments have been praised by fans.