Justin Gaethje ‘fear of wrestlers’ called out by Mateusz Gamrot after UFC 313 choice

UFC lightweight Mateusz Gamrot mocks former interim champion Justin Gaethje for choosing a striker for UFC 313. 

Justin Gaethje ‘fear of wrestlers’ called out by Mateusz Gamrot after UFC 313 choice

Mateusz Gamrot believes Justin Gaethje is scared of fighting wrestlers (via Imago/X)

Justin Gaethje was originally scheduled to fight Dan Hooker at the co-main event of UFC 313. However, due to an injury, Hooker had to be replaced with only a few weeks to the bout. While fans are hyped about the new matchup, Mateusz Gamrot believes Gaethje chose the easiest opponent.

After Hooker pulled out, fighters such as Renato Moicano, Rafael Fiziev, and Gamrot initially showed interest. Recently, CEO Dana White announced that Fiziev will fight Gaethje at UFC 313. It seems like Gamrot wanted that fight and showed his disappointment in a viral tweet. 

Easier choice stylistically. Strikers have always feared wrestlers. I keep in great shape and I’m ready for anyone!

Mateusz Gamrot via X

Gamrot is one of the best wrestlers in the lightweight division and has five professional victories via submission. He has even helped Dustin Poirier train his ground game for Islam Makhachev, and it was quite helpful. Gaethje himself has a huge background in wrestling and was a Division I All-American wrestler at the University of Northern Colorado. 

FS Video

He is a two-time wrestling champion and has great takedown defense; however, he doesn’t necessarily use that in his fights. In the past, the fighter has been submitted and was seen struggling against top wrestlers. By that reference, Gamrot’s claims might weigh on them. 

Why Justin Gaethje doesn’t like wrestling in his fights 

Justin Gaethje is an aggressive pressure fighter known for his relentless pace, devastating leg kicks, and powerful boxing. His granite chin and high-risk, high-reward approach make him one of the most exciting fighters in MMA. Over time, he has refined his style, balancing his trademark chaos with improved defense and calculated striking.

Justin Gaethje struggling against Khabib Nurmagomedov’s wrestling
Justin Gaethje struggling against Khabib Nurmagomedov’s wrestling (via X)

However, the fighter never uses his wrestling in an offensive way, which has raised concerns among fans and experts. There are several occasions where the fighter could have done better if he had relied on his ground game. In an interview, the fighter shared his opinion on why he doesn’t utilize his wrestling prowess. 

I was always against it [wrestling] because I was gonna get tired. I walked off a seven minute match, almost every time — almost unable to walk. The way I wrestle or the way I do anything is not to preserve energy. I don’t wrestle to preserve energy.

Justin Gaethje via Below the Belt with Brendan Schub
YouTube video

Wrestling has always been a tiring activity, and experts such as Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, etc., are known for their stamina. On the other hand, Gaethje, who has participated in several five-round bouts, likes to keep the fight on the feet. It will be interesting to see how the fighter does at UFC 313.