[ad_1]
NEXT LEVEL. Justin Gaethje believes he is ready to challenge UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice / Getty Images / AFP
MANILA, Philippines – After taking the interim belt, Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje said he is ready to take on defending UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Gaethje (22-2) earned the UFC Provisional Lightweight Crown after teasing Tony “El Cucuy” Ferguson (25-4) via Round 5 TKO at UFC 249 on Sunday, May 10, at the VyStar. Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.
The 31-year-old fighter said he is ready to represent the United States against the reigning champion in Russia.
“I can’t wait to meet the challenge [from Khabib]”Gaethje said.” That is why we are here. You must try to kill me and I will do the same. “
The No. 4 fighter in the lightweight division had the advantage throughout the match and hit Ferguson with heavy punches.
But Gaethje remained patient until the last round where he connected the left hand that surprised his enemy.
“The Highlight” said he learned not to be complacent about his previous fights against the best of the lightweight division.
“I have made the same mistakes [in the] Dustin Poirier and Eddie Alvarez fight, “said Gaethje.” I became complacent. I started having too much fun. I didn’t worry about getting hit and then I was hit in the right place at the right time. I had to make an adjustment and I can’t let that happen anymore. “
Gaethje, who was a last-minute replacement for Khabib, ended contender No. 1’s 12-fight streak.
Ferguson’s face turned into a punching bag and ended with cuts and bruises. But just like the fans, Gaethje was also surprised that Ferguson didn’t fall under the scrutiny and simply absorbed all the solid hits coming at him.
“I think most people would have [gone] to sleep, “he said.
“I never saw quit smoking in [Ferguson’s] eyes As a fighter, you understand that emotions are very different there. Your face can’t lie, but your face never told me it was over. I congratulate him on how tough he is, that’s why I’m such a fan of him. “
Right after the fight, Gaethje tossed the interim title aside and said he wanted the real belt. But during the post-match interview, Gaethje clarified that it feels great to hold the provisional crown.
“That’s the competitor in me, you can never be satisfied. When I got the belt, I want the next one,” he said.
“I’m proud to hold this belt, it feels good. Not many people in the world, let alone fighters in the UFC, do this, so it feels great and I should enjoy it.” – Rappler.com
[ad_2]
