Curtis Blaydes says he respects Josh Emmett despite pre-fight behavior

Curtis Blaydes stated he respects Josh Emmett's fighting ability despite not liking his personality or pre-fight antics. Blaydes explained it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Emmett as just talk after their bout. While Blaydes doesn't enjoy Emmett's persona or promotional tactics outside the cage, he acknowledges that once they're facing each other with gloves on in the Octagon, he cannot help but respect his opponent's skills. The heavyweight contender emphasized the importance of recognizing an opponent's legitimate fighting capabilities regardless of personal feelings about their character or behavior leading up to the fight.