Curtis Blaydes recently commented on Josh Hewitt's provocative behavior ahead of their fight. Blaydes compared Hewitt to Colby Covington, noting that Hewitt is trying to adopt a similar approach. However, Blaydes gave credit to Covington, acknowledging that he was actually good at it. The heavyweight contender stated he won't participate in such antics and believes Hewitt is simply trying to create viral video moments. Blaydes concluded that interacting with Hewitt outside of fight night would be a waste of time.
Curtis Blaydes has weighed in on the pre-fight behavior of his upcoming opponent Josh Hewitt, drawing a pointed comparison to one of the sport's most recognizable trash-talkers in Colby Covington.
Blaydes, ranked fourth in the heavyweight division at 35 years old, carries a 19-6 record and has long been one of the more technically accomplished fighters in the weight class. The six-foot-four American out of Elevation Fight Team is a relentless pressure fighter who averages 5.38 takedowns per 15 minutes and lands significant strikes at a 50 percent accuracy clip — numbers that reflect a composed, methodical approach to competition.
The comparison Blaydes drew was to Covington, the 38-year-old welterweight known under the nickname "Chaos." Covington, who stands at five-foot-eleven with a 72-inch reach and fights out of MMA Masters, built much of his public profile around deliberate provocation. Blaydes acknowledged that Covington was genuinely skilled at that game — a notable concession from a fighter who otherwise dismissed the entire approach.
When it came to Hewitt's conduct, Blaydes was far less charitable. He characterized Hewitt's provocative behavior as a transparent attempt to manufacture viral moments rather than any authentic expression of competitive intensity. Blaydes made clear he has no interest in engaging outside of fight night, calling any such interaction a waste of his time.
Why it matters
- Blaydes is ranked fourth at heavyweight, meaning a strong performance keeps him in title contention
- His refusal to engage in mind games reflects a disciplined pre-fight approach consistent with his team and fighting style
- The Covington comparison raises the question of whether Hewitt's tactics will generate pressure or simply fire up an already focused opponent
