The Takedown | UFC 254: Khabib can set himself up for shot at ‘GOAT’ status with win over Justin Gaethje
- ‘If he beats Justin he’s the No 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world and he’s on his way to GOAT status,’ says UFC boss Dana White
- Victory would set Nurmagomedov up for run at 30-0 and a potential retirement fight with Georges St-Pierre – and there’s a beautiful symmetry to that
There is an air of invincibility about Khabib Nurmagomedov.
It has been hard-earned through years of grinding, honed in the harsh mountains of Dagestan under the watchful eye of his late father and coach, Abdulmanap, who died in July from complications related to contracting the coronavirus.
The UFC lightweight champ overwhelms, smashes and smothers; every fighter who has tried has been unable to keep up with his relentless pressure. But these skills will be put to the test at UFC 254 against a man many consider to be the most ferocious striking talent in the promotion.
Justin Gaethje (22-2) is a fascinating opponent for the 32-year-old “Eagle” (28-0), his reputation very different. Having received performance bonuses in every one of his seven UFC fights, the interim champ is called “The Highlight” for a reason.
That’s why Dana White believes a win on Fight Island in the early hours of Sunday morning will propel Nurmagomedov to the highest level attainable.
“Khabib is looking down the barrel of [being] not only the greatest ever to do it in this division, but, listen, if he beats Justin, he’s the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world and he’s on his way to GOAT [greatest of all time] status.”
