Tony Ferguson felt the full force of Justin Gaethje during UFC 249
UFC Interim Lightweight Champion Justin Gaethje was recently on the Joe Rogan Experience.
The 31-year-old was speaking about his next possible opponent, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and the fight plans he would have to use against the Russian.
Khabib and Gaethje had a lot of wrestling pedigree and many have suggested that the American could give the current Lightweight champion a run for his money.
However, Gaethje also spoke about why he uses his legs so much in a fight. Tony Ferguson was the recipient of several calf kicks, and the interim champion put some light on that technique:
“I know how bad those kicks hurt. I am never kicking above the knee any more, it’s only below.
“So devastating, you can fire it off from different distances, it is so much more safe. There are so many nerves and ligaments that run through that part there that have no protection.”
Gaethje also said that other parts such as the thigh and quads are better protected, and claimed four kicks could hurt Khabib.
“I gotta tough Khabib there four times, and then he is compromised.”
Gaethje did believe that Khabib could still “shoot” but he needed to have the right defence or he would be destroyed.
Gaethje also discussed how Khabib gets most of his takedowns near the end of the Octagon, and not in the middle of it.
That seems to be a tactic from the Lightweight champion as he can use the mesh around the Octagon to help with his grapples and holds.
The Russian is one of the best in getting submission wins too, but Gaethje has ferocious power in his punches. The American displayed that against Ferguson, and it will be interesting to see how the Khabib vs Gaethje fight goes.
Dana White hasn’t confirmed where the fight would be held. However, plans must be set for the clash to decide to undisputed Lightweight champion.
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