UFC lightweights Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler put on a ‘Fight of the Year’ thriller for the fans at UFC 268. Both men hammered each other from pillar to post and the fight surprisingly went the distance despite the damage sustained. ‘The Highlight’ picked up a decision win on the cards and has managed to solidify himself as the number one contender.
The first round of the fight will go down as possibly one of the best rounds of all time in the sport of MMA. The first round of Nick Diaz vs Paul Daley back in Strikeforce is perhaps the only other competitor to Chandler vs Gaethje.
HE ROCKED HIM 🤯@Justin_Gaethje is pouring on the pressure!
[ #UFC268 | The Main Card is LIVE on ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xRVlqJBhNX ] pic.twitter.com/QzfTRYYGCr— UFC (@ufc) November 7, 2021
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Striking on POINT from @Justin_Gaethje tonight ⚡️
[ #UFC268 | The Main Card is LIVE on ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xRVlqJBhNX ] pic.twitter.com/oPb1CsoNRP— UFC (@ufc) November 7, 2021
After the contest, it was reported by Jose Youngs of MMA Fighting that both men were on their way to this hospital. Chiefly, their medical transport meant that they would not be speaking to the media after their 2021 Fight of the Year performance. However, given the war both men just went through, it’s no surprise they are on their way towards a medical evaluation.
Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler have both been transported to the hospital.
They will not be doing media. #UFC268
— José Youngs (@JoseYoungs) November 7, 2021
Justin Gaethje vs Michael Chandler: An all-time classic
The fight was touted as a potential banger right from the day it was announced and both men certainly delivered. Chandler started off strong by landing a barrage of leg kicks and was able to rock Gaethje early on. ‘The Highlight’ stood his ground in round one and managed to engage with ‘Iron’ Mike at every step of the way.
This fight is absolutely BANANAS 😳
[ #UFC268 | The Main Card is LIVE on ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xRVlqJBhNX ] pic.twitter.com/V8bBN8A2kt— UFC (@ufc) November 7, 2021
Round two saw Gaethje nearly finish Chandler as he sent him to the canvas with a hellacious strike. However, the former three-time Bellator lightweight champion showed his mettle and managed to survive the assault. However, his face was bloodied up at this point and the momentum of the fight was swinging with Gaethje.
This fight is 𝑨𝑺 𝑨𝑫𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑻𝑰𝑺𝑬𝑫 🍿
[ #UFC268 | The Main Card is LIVE on ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xRVlqJBhNX ] pic.twitter.com/cV1dBb93aQ— UFC (@ufc) November 7, 2021
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As advertised 👏
💢 @Justin_Gaethje notches the UD victory after an incredible battle.
[ #UFC268 | The Main Card is LIVE on ESPN+ PPV: https://t.co/xRVlqJBhNX ] pic.twitter.com/wZe2L8Tlcx— UFC (@ufc) November 7, 2021
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The final round was simply chaotic with both men finding some openings on the feet. All in all, both men left it all on the octagon floor once the final bell rang out. The fans couldn’t get enough the aforementioned title eliminator will go down as one for the ages.
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