Justin Gaethje: No Regrets, Just Determination
Justin Gaethje is a fighter who wears his heart on his sleeve, and despite the painful memories of UFC 300, he has zero regrets. Last April, Gaethje was set to defend his “BMF” title against Max Holloway, a bout that was anticipated to be a battle of wills between two of the UFC’s most relentless competitors. The fight lived up to its hype, with 24 minutes and 50 seconds of back-and-forth action that tested both men’s resolve. In the final seconds, Holloway famously pointed to the ground and beckoned Gaethje to meet him in the middle. Gaethje, ever the warrior, obliged, and what followed was a moment etched in UFC history: Holloway’s last-second knockout, which not only won KO of the Year honors but also left Gaethje unconscious and twitching on the mat. The footage went viral, adding another layer to the already dramatic ending. However, for Gaethje, there’s no shame in the aftermath. “I’m glad I saw it,” he told reporters at the UFC 313 Media Day. “From what I saw, I was trying to get up and fight. It’s just what I do. I choose ‘fight’ instead of ‘flight’ every single time, and that’s what I expect from myself: to try and get up.”
A New Opportunity at UFC 313
Now, Gaethje has a chance to put that loss behind him as he returns to the octagon for a rematch against Rafael Fiziev, the co-main event at UFC 313. Initially, Gaethje was set to face Dan Hooker, a fight that was hyped as one of the most exciting matchups in the lightweight division. However, when Hooker withdrew due to a hand injury, the UFC scrambled to find a suitable replacement. Fiziev stepped in on short notice, a move that Gaethje immediately appreciated. “I love fighting. I got my ass knocked out last fight and I’m dying to get back in there and get that back,” Gaethje said. “At the end of the day, all these guys are very, very dangerous. We went through our options; I wanted [Arman] Tsarukyan or [Charles] Oliveira, but if I was them, I would never take the fight and I do not blame them for that.” Gaethje’s gratitude for Fiziev’s willingness to accept the fight is evident, highlighting the mutual respect between fighters in the sport. “I’m grateful for [Fiziev]. He was halfway — probably more than halfway across the world, however big the world is. He took the fight. He came over here. I applaud him for that. I love to perform and I was ready to perform. I was trying to make it happen.”
The Warrior Within
For Gaethje, the essence of the sport lies in the willingness to face any opponent, no matter how daunting. His first fight against Fiziev in 2023 was a brutal affair that earned Fight of the Night honors and was even on the shortlist for Fight of the Year. Both fighters are known for their aggressive and exciting styles, and Gaethje is well aware that the rematch could be just as intense. “If you’ve ever seen me fight, you know I will accept that challenge every single time,” Gaethje said. “When [Holloway] pointed at the ground I said yes and ran to the middle. So absolutely.” Gaethje’s statement is a testament to his fighting spirit and his unwavering commitment to giving the fans the action they crave. Despite the intense pressure and the high stakes, Gaethje remains true to his principles, preferring to engage in a slugfest rather than retreat.
The Importance of Resilience
Resilience is a key trait in the world of mixed martial arts, and Gaethje exemplifies this quality. The 36-year-old lightweight has been through his fair share of battles, both in and out of the octagon. The loss to Holloway was a significant setback, but Gaethje’s determination to bounce back is what sets him apart. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to prove myself again,” he said. “I’ve worked hard to get back to this point, and I’m not going to let a single setback define me.” Gaethje’s journey in the UFC has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks, but it is his ability to rise from defeat that has earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans. The rematch with Fiziev is not just a chance to avenge a previous loss but also an opportunity to showcase his resilience and fighting prowess.
Preparing for War
The first encounter between Gaethje and Fiziev was a grueling affair, and both fighters acknowledge that the rematch is likely to be just as intense. Gaethje has been training rigorously, honing his skills and preparing for every possible scenario. “We went over all the tapes, all the angles, and we’re ready to give the fans another unforgettable fight,” he said. Fiziev, who is known for his power and endurance, represents a formidable challenge, and Gaethje is not taking any chances. “I’m not just preparing to win; I’m preparing to dominate. I want to show everyone that I’m still the best in this division, and I’ll do whatever it takes to come out on top.” The lightweight division is one of the most competitive in the UFC, and Gaethje is determined to cement his place among the elite.
A Fighter’s Legacy
As Justin Gaethje steps into the octagon on Saturday, he carries the weight of his legacy and the expectations of his fans. His career has been defined by his fearless approach and his willingness to engage in high-stakes battles. The loss to Holloway, while painful, has only fueled his desire to fight harder and prove his mettle. “I’m not just here to win; I’m here to put on a show,” Gaethje said. “I want to give the fans a fight they’ll remember for years to come, and I believe that with Fiziev, we can deliver that.” Gaethje’s journey is a reminder that in the world of combat sports, the greatest warriors are those who face their fears, embrace the challenge, and never stop fighting. His rematch with Fiziev is a battle that will test both men’s limits and could redefine their careers. No matter the outcome, Gaethje’s legacy as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC will remain intact.
