Khabib Nurmagomedov went all guns blazing against a fierce striker like Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC 254. The Dagestani fighter showed no respect for Gaethje’s knockout power as he picked up a submission win in the second round to unify his lightweight championship. Former lightweight contender Nate Diaz took to Twitter and mocked Justin Gaethje for his lack of BJJ skills on the ground.
— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020
Whitebelt
— Nathan Diaz (@NateDiaz209) October 24, 2020
“Whitebelt” Diaz’s tweet read. Nate Diaz and Khabib Nurmagomedov share an ugly history. Both the fighters were involved in a brawl which started from inside the arena and eventually lead to an ugly aftermath in the hallway. Diaz has called out Khabib multiple times in the past, often using the word “Kabob” to refer to the lightweight champion.
Also Read I Khabib Nurmagomedov Breaks Down in Tears at UFC 254- Announces Retirement
Khabib Nurmagomedov proves why he is the best
Khabib Nurmagomedov showed no respect for Gaethje’s knockout power and looked in complete control of the fight despite solid striking from Justin Gaethje. Despite not being able to take down Gaethje in the better part of the first round, Nurmagomedov showed no reluctance in trading punches with Justin Gaethje.
Dana White solidifies @TeamKhabib in the goat discussion after hearing about his broken foot coming into this fight.
[ #UFC254 | #InAbuDhabi | @VisitAbuDhabi ] pic.twitter.com/RYcBH0CrUv
— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020
It can be said that it must have put Gaethje off-guard who might not have been expecting to go all guns blazing at him despite knowing his striking prowess. However, after everything was said and done, it was Khabib Nurmagomedov who got his hands raised with an impressive submission win in the second round to seal the win. Soon after, Khabib announced his retirement from the sport and stated that he doesn’t see himself returning to the Octagon without his father at his side.
Also Read I Conor McGregor Comments on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Performance Against Justin Gaethje
“I know only one thing I want from UFC, you guys have to be me on No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world, because I deserve this. UFC undisputed, undefeated lightweight champion, 13-0, 13 in UFC, 29 in all pro MMA career. I think I deserve it.” Khabib said.
Khabib took advantage questionable cardio of Justin Gaethje and took him down with ease in the second round. He was able to top-mount him and brilliantly executed a triangle to trap Gaethje. The interim champion tried to break past the hold by getting up, however, failed to do so, and eventually tapped as he passed out on the ground. An arguement can be made that if Gaethje had a better ground game, the fight could have lasted longer than it did, however, credit cannot be taken away from Khabib Nurmagomedov who just looked spectacular in possibly his last fight inside the Octagon.
29-0.
A legacy that will never be equaled… #UFC254 pic.twitter.com/yck8dXSBQK
— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020