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

Curtis Blaydes stated that he respects Josh Hockitt as a fighter despite disliking his personality and pre-fight antics. Blaydes explained that it would be insincere and hypocritical to dismiss Hockitt's abilities, acknowledging that his opponent can truly fight. While Blaydes doesn't appreciate the showmanship and gimmicks Hockitt employs outside the cage, he emphasized that once they're both in the octagon with gloves on, he has full respect for him as a competitor. Blaydes rhetorically asked how he could not respect someone with Hockitt's fighting abilities. The heavyweight contender's comments reflect a mature perspective on separating personal feelings from professional respect in combat sports.