In a recent discussion, Justin Gaethje recognized Khabib Nurmagomedov as his most challenging opponent, acknowledging the submission loss he suffered during their title fight at UFC 254. He expressed that even with a better performance, he doubts he could have defeated Nurmagomedov. Transitioning to the current champion, Islam Makhachev, Gaethje considers a bout against him a dream matchup and believes he would have a more favorable chance of victory based on their fighting styles. As Gaethje approaches the later stages of his career, claiming a title shot against Makhachev is a pressing ambition.
"I think Khabib was the one who I felt, even if I performed better, I'm not sure that I could have beat him on that night specifically..."
"I want to fight Makhachev. He's the champ, and I do believe that that is a better matchup for me than Khabib. But he's good."
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