Gaethje reveals he could be a 'reserve' in the fight between Khabib and Tony: 'If they pay everything, I'm in'

J. Gaethje in an interview after UFC Vancouver. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube MMA Fighting

the american Justin gaethje does not hide the expectation of being able to compete for the lightweight title (up to 70,3kg) in the future. With a brilliant 2019 and coming off three knockouts in a row, the athlete revealed, to fight for the belt, he could be the 'reserve' athlete for the confrontation between Khabib Nurmagomedov e Tony Ferguson, which should take place on April 18th. The athlete would be called up to compete if one of the protagonists is not able to perform on the eve of the duel. With reservations, the fighter spoke about the subject in an interview with 'The Luke Thomas Show'.

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“If they (UFC) cover the training costs, I’m in. I have to keep myself in shape anyway. So it wouldn't hurt. It’s a financial commitment, even more so for a commitment like this”, said Justin.

Since his victory over Donald Cerrone, which took place in September, the athlete has publicly declared his desire to test his skills against the current champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Confident in his qualities, the North American makes a point of recording his eagerness to test himself against the Russian.

“I want to face Khabib. I have to fight Khabib. If the fight (against Tony) falls through, and I'm not ready, I'll be angry with myself”, declared the American.

Before Ultimate confirmed the negotiations between Khabib and Tony, Gaethje kept alive the expectation of being invited to exchange forces against Nurmagomedov for the division title. The athlete, however, had already said that the most deserving of the duel is, in fact, Ferguson. However, Justin says he is ready when the opportunity comes.

“I'm waiting for the title fight. I want to face the winner of the fight in April. I'm coming off three consecutive knockouts. I'm not sure what else I need to do. If there is anyone else in the way, I would have to pass them. But I don't think there is. So, the winner (of the April fight) should be my next opponent”, he concluded.