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Prior to the much-awaited fight between Kamaru Usman and  Leon Edwards, at The O2 Arena, London, for UFC 286 main event, Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev took it upon themselves to prepare the crowd for the finale. Undeniably, the ‘Ataman’ and ‘Highlight’ entertained the world of mixed martial arts like no other. Doubtlessly, the two deserved their slot at the co-main event.

The fight began with Fiziev showcasing his impressive speed. But, the former UFC interim lightweight champion quickly caught up and secured a win via majority decision. The fight indeed entertained the world and was considered to be the perfect fit for the co-main event. However, during the post-fight interview with Daniel Cormier, Gaethje seemingly took the fans’ breath away. Although he kept his word and scored a takedown against Fiziev, he also hinted at retirement.

Justin Gaethje shocks the world at UFC 286 post-fight interview

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After the fighter from Arizona secured his victory against ‘Ataman’, DC declared that Gaethje was his hero. Furthermore, he was simply flabbergasted at the way Gaethje fought. However, it was the next question that seemingly shook the world.

Cormier remarked that ‘Highlight’ faced some difficulty during the initial moments of the fight due to Fiziev’s commendable speed. DC asked, “Was that something you expected going into the fight, or was it surprising?” Gaethje replied, “Of course, these guys are young, hungry, and that’s a dangerous motherf**ker, right there.”

Read More: “Head On Collision!”: Fans React as Dustin Poirier Gives Bold Prediction for Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286

However, he continued to say that he’d do one more run at the lightweight title. On top of that, he declared that he wouldn’t be around much longer in the UFC. Finally, he thanked the MMA fans for their love and support. He said, “So, I’m taking one more, one more run at the title, but I ain’t gonna be around much longer. So, I’m glad, you guys got to enjoy this with me. Thank you, guys.”

Despite being the betting underdog in the fight, the American secured the all-important victory against the young contender

Victory for the ‘Highlight’

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Undeniably, the crowd was impressed with the initial speed displayed by ‘Ataman’. However, as the fight proceeded, Gaethje seemed to counter his opponent’s attacks. Both the warriors went toe-to-toe with the fight, till the bell rang. The second round was equally enthusiastic as Gaethje tried to take down Fiziev, in order to stay true to his words.

via Getty

However, it was the third round when the takedown actually happened. Staying true to his wish, ‘Highlight’ proved himself yet again on the battlefield. Nevertheless, the fight concluded with Gaethje emerging victorious by majority decision.

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Did you predict the outcome of UFC 286 co-main event correctly? Let us know in the comments down below.