Curtis Blaydes commented on Josh Hewitt's provocative behavior, comparing it to Colby Covington's approach. Blaydes acknowledged that while Hewitt wants to occupy that controversial niche, he gave credit to Covington for actually being good at it. Blaydes stated this style is not for him and that he won't participate in it. He believes Hewitt is simply trying to create viral video moments, and therefore interacting with him at any time other than fight night is a waste of time. Blaydes appears dismissive of Hewitt's tactics and uninterested in engaging with the promotional antics.
Curtis Blaydes has publicly brushed aside fellow heavyweight Josh Hewitt's trash-talk campaign, comparing the newcomer's antics to those of Colby Covington and making clear he has no interest in playing along.
Blaydes, ranked fourth in the UFC heavyweight division at 35 years old, carries a 19-6 record and has built his reputation largely on elite wrestling. The six-foot-four American out of Elevation Fight Team averages an impressive 5.38 takedowns per 15 minutes, and his striking accuracy of 50 percent reflects a measured, disciplined approach inside the cage. That composure apparently extends outside it as well.
In his comments, Blaydes acknowledged that Hewitt is carving out the same provocateur niche that Covington has occupied for years. He gave Covington genuine credit for executing that role effectively — and Covington's credentials back that up. The 38-year-old welterweight holds a 17-5 record and consistently delivers among the most active wrestling output in the division, averaging 3.64 takedowns per 15 minutes to go along with 3.81 significant strikes landed per minute. Blaydes' point was essentially that Covington earned his notoriety; Hewitt, in his view, is simply manufacturing controversy for clicks.
Blaydes was direct: Hewitt is chasing viral moments, and engaging with him outside of an actual fight is a waste of time. He made clear this style of promotional theater is not something he will participate in.
Why it matters
- Blaydes sits fourth in the heavyweight rankings, meaning any opponent he faces carries significant divisional weight
- His dismissal of Hewitt signals he does not view the promotional sparring as worth his attention or energy
- The comparison to Covington draws a clear line between calculated persona-building and what Blaydes sees as empty provocation
- If a fight between the two is being targeted, Blaydes has already framed fight night as the only arena that counts
