Justin Gaethje endured a stunning last-second fifth-round knockout to Max Holloway on the main card of UFC 300, relinquishing the BMF title and possibly his claim to a lightweight title shot.
Michael Bisping recently analyzed Gaethje’s performance, suggesting that he might have fallen victim to his own success following his impressive knockout victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 291.
During the TNT Sports’ post-fight show, the UFC Hall of Famer remarked,
“I think he was a victim of his own success… He thought he was going to go right through Max Holloway. He really did, and he was looking for the knockout constantly. You can’t do that. When you’re looking for the knockout, you telegraph the shot.”
It takes two to tango. I couldn’t have asked for a better dance partner for #ufc300 . It was an honor to share that octagon with you @Justin_Gaethje . A true BMF in every way, thank you for the opportunity. Shoutout to the real ones who has been rocking with me. I said it before… pic.twitter.com/SpMLv0HlYb
— Max Holloway (@BlessedMMA) April 14, 2024
Bisping continued, highlighting Gaethje’s approach during the fight and the missed opportunity to secure a lightweight title shot.
“He was swinging with everything he had… He learned a very, very valuable lesson because he didn’t have to take this fight. He was the next contender for Islam Makhachev. He was the rightful contender for the lightweight title. That just went up in flames.”
Gaethje waits for Islam Makhachev
Gaethje could have opted to wait for Islam Makhachev’s availability in June and secured a title opportunity. However, by choosing to fight Holloway, he suffered his first knockout loss in six years, and the lightweight champion will now defend his title against Poirier at UFC 302.
Despite the loss, Gaethje earned praise from his opponent, Max Holloway, who commended him for accepting the challenge. Holloway took to Twitter to express his gratitude, stating,
“It takes two to tango… A true BMF in every way, thank you for the opportunity.”
Both fighters received $300,000 Fight of the Night bonuses, with Holloway also earning an additional $300,000 Performance of the Night bonus. While Holloway rightfully earned praise for his victory, Gaethje’s willingness to engage in an exciting bout should not go unnoticed.
