JUSTIN GAETHJE was Khabib Nurmagomedov's most powerful opponent in UFC, according to the Russian star.
Khabib, 32, quit MMA following his defeat to the American in October last year. He was able to defend his lightweight title for the third time.
Khabib Nurmagomedov won a submission victory over Justin Gaethje
The fight ended in a technical submission in round 2. However, the legend has described how Gaethje's punching power and kick strength changed his game plan in the Octagon.
Mike Tyson's Hotboxin’ podcast said that he was a "hit man."
Justin Gaethje is the hardest to hit - his punch, kick, punch, left hook and right hook, as well as his right uppercut...
"But I made him hit on me.
"When I got to the cage, I was like, "I'm going and take him to deep sea, I'm going make him tired standing, and then bring him down to the ground to finish him."
"He's a great wrestler, and I knew right away that he would not let me wrestle him."
This was Khabib's only fight since the death of Abdulmanap in July 2020 from coronavirus.
The UFC champion also spoke out about how this factor was a major concern during his fight.
He said, "I got through my punches and kickes and with all that happened to me father, I always thought: "Nothing to lose."
"My coach said to me, "Listen to his game plan, take him down." Because I was emotional, I didn't pay attention to all he said.
After the win, Khabib took home a 29-0 record. This was after he placed Gaethje in a triangle choke.
It could have been much worse. The Russian admitted that he pulled out an armbar move on his opponent so that he didn't break Gaethje’s arm in front his parents.
Khabib said, "I met his parents three-days before the fight and I was certain they would be there.
"I know that he is very strong and never gives up. I put him in an arm bar, and thought, "Maybe he is locked up. I'm going break his arm in front his parents."
"And I switched to the triangle choke. It's amazing how people fall asleep if you choke them.
"This is better than breaking your opponent's arm."
