Justin Gaethje has no regrets in passing away fight against Conor McGregor

Justin Gaethje has no regrets in passing away fight against Conor McGregor

Conor McGregor and Justin Gaethje

Conor McGregor (left) and Justin Gaethje (right)

After his emphatic form in the lightweight division, Justin Gaethje has been deservingly scheduled for the title against Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 254 in October. The former put forward his views on siding away a fight against the ‘Notorious One’ in this very year. Gaethje suggests that he has no regrets in doing so. Since May, Gaethje has said his goal is to beat Nurmagomedov for the UFC’s lightweight championship and then defend it against Conor McGregor in what would be a lucrative first defence.

Others in Gaethje’s position might not have made the same choice. Conor McGregor bout is usually associated with a higher pay check. Also, if Gaethje becomes the 29th consecutive man to lose to Nurmagomedov, there’s no guarantee McGregor would still be interested in fighting him. 

Justin Gaethje keen on fighting Khabib Nurmagomedov 

Justin Gaethje and Khabib Nurmagomedov

Talking about side lining a fight against McGregor and capturing a title bout, Gaethje said, “If there was any kind of interest, [the UFC] would have tried to make it. Financially, it’s a big gamble, it’s a lot riskier. But this is the goal … not just wealth: legacy. That’s what I’m most excited for about this opportunity.” 

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Gaethje added, “I’ve watched this sport a long time, since Tito Ortiz was champion in the early 2000s. Chuck Liddell, Randy Couture, all those guys. I truly think, if I can beat Khabib and Conor McGregor [after that], I will have cemented something that is almost unmatched.” 

Gathje defeated Tony Ferguson earlier this year only to be scheduled against Khabib, which clearly is a tougher challenge. Regardless of what happens because of the choice he made, Gaethje’s fight against Khabib will be lucrative enough. Gaethje says he will give part of his paycheck from UFC 254 to his mother, Carolina, allowing her to retire from the United States Postal Service. 

Also Read: Michael Chandler’s plans to beat Khabib or Gaethje if replacement needed at UFC 254