Blaydes says he respects Hokit despite pre-fight trash talk

Curtis Blaydes stated that he respects Josh Hokit as a fighter despite disliking his personality and pre-fight behavior. Blaydes explained that it would be insincere and hypocritical to deny Hokit's fighting ability, acknowledging that anyone who can break his orbital bone deserves respect inside the octagon. While Blaydes does not appreciate Hokit's antics and persona outside the cage, he maintains full respect for him as an opponent when they face each other with gloves on. The statement reflects Blaydes' ability to separate personal feelings from professional respect for fighting skills.