Khabib Nurmagomedov`s retirement from the UFC in 2020 sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community. While widely acclaimed as the most dominant champion in the promotion`s history, Nurmagomedov also faced considerable criticism for stepping away at the height of his career.
In his last professional fight, `The Eagle` successfully defended and unified his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje, who had previously secured the interim title by defeating Tony Ferguson. Despite `The Highlight` being considered Khabib`s most formidable challenge yet due to his strong wrestling pedigree, the Russian superstar once again asserted his dominance, securing a second-round submission victory over Gaethje.
Justin Gaethje`s Candid Response to Being Named Khabib`s Most Powerful Foe
Throughout his illustrious UFC career, Khabib appeared nearly untouchable, with the bout against Gleison Tibau being his only contested performance, which commentator Joe Rogan famously suggested he might have lost. Despite his decisive victory over `The Highlight,` Khabib later acknowledged Gaethje as the most physically powerful opponent he ever faced.
During an appearance on `Hotboxin with Mike Tyson,` Khabib stated, “He hit like a truck. Nobody hit me harder than Justin Gaethje – his kick, his punch, his left hook, his right hook, right uppercut.”
Gaethje is widely recognized as one of the most formidable power strikers in lightweight history, known for his involvement in numerous thrilling UFC encounters. However, despite earning Khabib’s high praise for his power, the 36-year-old fighter expressed a somewhat understated reaction, noting that the compliment doesn`t alter the outcome of their championship bout.
In a recent social media video, Gaethje recounted, “I hit him really hard, I hit him really hard. I kicked him really hard and then hit him with a good right hand.” He elaborated on Khabib`s compliment, saying, “Hearing Khabib say I hit him the hardest doesn’t feel that good because he still beat me. I still did not win the championship, so, I mean, it’s… yeah, I don’t know, it’s cool.”
What`s Next for Justin Gaethje: A Shot at the UFC Lightweight Title?
Earlier this year, `The Highlight` issued a bold ultimatum to the UFC, threatening retirement if he wasn`t granted the next lightweight title opportunity. This declaration was met with a blunt response from UFC President Dana White, who dismissed Gaethje`s stance as `whacky` and provocatively suggested he should indeed retire.
Despite Gaethje`s strong statement, there has been no official announcement regarding the next lightweight title challenger. UFC President Dana White recently hinted that Ilia Topuria is expected to defend his title at the inaugural UFC event on Paramount. The identity of Topuria`s opponent remains uncertain, with speculation pointing either to Gaethje or to British contender Paddy Pimblett, who shares a significant rivalry with Topuria.