Justin Gaethje breaks silence as unseen disturbing footage of UFC’s ‘greatest knockout’ surfaces: “Die by the sword”

Former UFC title contender Justin Gaethje talks about his devastating knockout loss against Max Holloway at UFC 300.

Justin Gaethje breaks silence as unseen disturbing footage of UFC’s ‘greatest knockout’ surfaces: “Die by the sword”

Justin Gaethje remembers his brutal knockout loss at UFC 300 (via MMA Fighting/X)

Justin Gaethje’s last fight at UFC 300 ended in heartbreak as he suffered a brutal knockout loss. In one of the most electrifying moments in UFC history, the entire arena was on its feet, witnessing an unforgettable battle. While it was a devastating setback for ‘The Highlight,’ the experience became a lesson in resilience, fueling his motivation. 

Gaethje took on Max Holloway, who is known for his granite chin and fighting spirit. Holloway dominated the fight but still participated in the last-second slugfest, giving fans what they wanted. After getting knocked out, Gaethje laid still and wasn’t able to move for a few minutes. This video went viral in a recent unseen footage and ex-BMF champion talked about the lessons he took from the fight. 

Great reminder of what’s at stake. Live by the sword die by the sword. It’s all I know.

Justin Gaethje via X
YouTube video

Gaethje has always been a fighter who prioritized putting on a show rather than effectively winning. Despite being an NCAA wrestling champion, the Arizona native doesn’t like to use his ground game offensively. ‘The Highlight’ is known for taking risks and getting involved in brutal fights, making him a major draw. 

FS Video

Currently, Gaethje is scheduled to fight Rafael Fiziev in the co-main event of UFC 313, and the hype around it is massive. The last time they fought, it was a bloody war, and it would have a similar level of violence this time around as well. However, it would be interesting to see if Gaethje will bring any changes after his last devastating loss. 

The carefree attitude of Justin Gaethje 

Justin Gaethje is well aware of his fighting style and the dangers of it. Before the fight against Max Holloway, Justin Gaethje knocked out the legendary Dustin Poirier, and was in full confidence. He was in the line to get his third lightweight title shot. 

Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway after their UFC 300 war
Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway after their UFC 300 war (via X)

However, given the opportunity, he attempted to defend his BMF title, and faced the consequences. Despite having a brutal war like that, the mutual respect between Holloway and Gaethje was top notch. The Hawaiian superstar credited Gaethje for taking the fight and risking everything for the fans. 

Shout out to Justin Gaethje, brother. He had everything to lose. He still took this fight, UFC 300, the biggest fight card for the next decade probably. To go out there and do what we did, you know, we both got paid, so I’m happy for that….It was just an amazing night.

Max Holloway via UFC 300 post-fight presser 
YouTube video

A few months later, Holloway was brutally knocked out by Ilia Topuria, showing the cycle of fighting. This weekend, Gaethje will try to have different results and he will have to go through his old rival to do so. Gaethje is already looking past UFC 313 for a potential title shot against Islam Makhachev. It remains to be seen if the American fighter gets his title shot.

Related: Max Holloway Net Worth, UFC salary, Endorsements and House