Justin disregards his interim lightweight title at the UFC 254 press conference

Justin disregards his interim lightweight title at the UFC 254 press conference
Khabib Nurmagomedov (L) and Justin Gaethje (R)

The world is on tenterhooks, as the much awaited Lightweight Unification Bout between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, is just two days away. The fight will take place at Flash Forum on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Khabib comes into the fight as the clear favorite, although the American, Justin Gaethje can’t be written off that easily. He is equally good in both striking and grappling, with the latter, the one which his opponent Khabib is a master of.

At the pre-fight press conference, there was a lot of mutual respect between the two fighters, with Khabib giving one too many pats on Justin’s back during the face off. There was also a sight to behold when a ‘dissatisfied’ Justin disregarded his interim Lightweight belt while posing alongside Khabib.

Gaethje sets sight on the “real thing”

In a video posted to twitter by BT Sport MMA reporter Chamatkar Sandhu, Justin can be seen refusing to acknowledge his interim Lightweight belt. A not very satisfied Justin holds on to his belt for hardly 5 seconds, before placing it elsewhere and posing without the belt. Sandhu tweeted saying, “This close up shot of Justin Gaethje disregarding the UFC interim lightweight title is fantastic. His eyes are on the real thing!” This clearly shows how motivated Justin is on capturing the lightweight belt from Khabib.

FS Video

As for Khabib, he already mentioned that he is wary of the threat the American poses and will be looking to humble him. And, not to forget the presence of Justin Gaethje’s parents by the ringside which will definitely give the American, a huge psychological boost. When all is said and done, Justin will have to throw everything into his fight, kitchen sink included!

Also Read: Khabib is on his way to GOAT status, says Dana White!