“I’m Not Fighting in July, F*** That!”- Justin Gaethje vs Khabib Nurmagomedov on Fight Island Plan in Jeopardy

Justin Gaethje delivered an outstanding performance at UFC 249 by putting down the Boogeyman himself, Tony Ferguson.

Gaethje was confident about his game plan and executed it with sheer brilliance. He meted out devastating strikes with extreme precision. Even though the unstoppable “El Cucuy” did not give up till the very last moment, referee Herb Dean had seen enough of the punishment that Tony received.

He called the competition to a stop with 1:20 to go for the end of the matchup. Consequently, The Highlight emerged the victor and took the MMA world by storm. He is now the Interim Lightweight Champion, next in line to face the Champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

While many predict that their match could take place in July, Gaethje has other ideas. Here is what he said regarding the timeline of the match in the UFC post-fight interview.

“I’m not fighting in July. Fu*k that! [I will] probably [fight] in August, September. Something like that.”

Of course, after accomplishing the mammoth feat that he did this Saturday, Gaethje deserves some rest. Few can battle Ferguson the way he did, let alone beat him. Moreover, his next opponent is as formidable as they come.

‘The Eagle’ is the next most challenging fighter in the business, and Gaethje is looking forward to that challenge. However, preparing for Khabib requires much more time than one can imagine. His unmatched wrestling skills have proven to be a downfall for many. Yet, Gaethje broke one streak with meticulous planning, and he may do the same with Khabib, provided he is given time to train.

Justin Gaethje values the Interim title, but would much rather have the “real thing”

Besides his plans regarding the next fight, there is something else that Gaethje said in the interview that was rather peculiar. He said that while he acknowledges and respects the fact that he is now the Interim titleholder; he does not want to rest and be content with just that.

He said, “I’m proud to hold this belt. But, I’ve always been competitive. When I get the belt, I want the next one.”

He did something unwarranted as soon as Dana White handed him the Interim belt. He took it off. And when Joe Rogan asked him whether he does not want that, he said, “I’m waiting for the real one.”

Well, it’s fair to say that Gaethje’s thirst for challenge and an equally strong warrior spirit is admirable and dangerous. Although he accepted a quick call to fight Tony, he is not willing to do the same for the championship fight.

This is because his title shot is now in his hands. And he wants to play it as best as he can. He wants to complete his training camp to its entirety before stepping up to Khabib.

Do you think he will be able to overpower Khabib Nurmagomedov?