“I’m more confident!” Justin Gaethje claims Islam Makhachev doesn’t have ‘Intimidating factor’ like Khabib Nurmagomedov

Justin Gaethje eyes the lightweight title after Islam Makhachev's splendid performance in UFC 295.

“I’m more confident!” Justin Gaethje claims Islam Makhachev doesn’t have ‘Intimidating factor’ like Khabib Nurmagomedov

Justin Gaethje says Islam Makhachev is not as intimidating as his peer, Khabib Nurmagomedov (via Imago)

Justin Gaethje displayed confidence and rejected Islam Makhachev by stating that the latter isn’t as intimidating as Khabib Nurmagomedov. Gaethje, who previously fought Khabib, the former unbeaten UFC lightweight champion, does not see Makhachev in the same light.

Gaethje’s self-assurance originates from his perception that Makhachev lacks the terrifying quality that Nurmagomedov possessed. Despite Makhachev’s lightweight division supremacy, Gaethje is unfazed and motivated to demonstrate his talents in the octagon.

I was not scared of Khabib, but he is an intimidating guy to go against. You know that factor will not be there (against Islam Makhachev). I am more confident, especially after going through that experience.
Justin Gaethje via TMZsports

Islam Makhachev recently secured a memorable victory against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi. Justin Gaethje is one of the potential fighters who was talked about as Islam’s next challenge. However, this remains to be seen. Justin remains confident in his skills and the experience that he gained from the Khabib Nurmagomedov fight.

Gaethje’s last fight was against Dustin Poirier for the undisputed BMF title. He won that bout with a mind-blowing head-kick knockout, cementing himself as the current BMF. The BMF title was previously held by Jorge Masvidal who relinquished the belt after his retirement from MMA.

After Islam Makhachev’s win at UFC 294, Justin Gaethje declared himself the ‘next’ challenger

Justin Gaethje has declared himself as the next challenger following Islam Makhachev’s dominant win over Alexander Volkanovski. Gaethje, who has a record of 25-4 with 20 knockouts, had a successful 2023 campaign, defeating Rafael Fiziev and Dustin Poirier.

Justin Garthje eyes lightweight title after Islam Makhachev's dominant performace at UFC 295.
Justin Garthje eyes lightweight title after Islam Makhachev’s dominant performance at UFC 295. (via IMDb/talkSPORT)

Gaethje is the No. 2 contender for the lightweight title, after Oliviera. However, he is steadfast in his goal to defeat Makhachev. He intends to dethrone the current champion and capture the esteemed UFC lightweight belt. This is what Gaethje had to say after UFC 294:

I'm next
Justin Gaethje via X

Although Gaethje wants the championship shot, it looks like UFC CEO Dana White feels Oliveira deserves it more. We will have to wait and see what the UFC will pit against the reigning lightweight champion.

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