Before UFC 268, Justin Gaethje reveals he was 'afraid' to face a Brazilian fighter

J. Gaethje in an interview with UFC. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

Second place in the UFC lightweight ranking (up to 70,3kg), Justin gaethje usually makes himself available to new challenges in the organization. The North American is even preparing to measure forces against Michael chandler No. UFC 268 next Saturday (6). However, he reveals that he was once afraid of facing Edson Barboza in the company.

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“I was very afraid of Edson (Barboza), you know? I remember being in college – before I even fought in the UFC – and I watched that guy spinning back and kicking. I even remember playing poker with some friends and being horrified when I fought with Beneil Dariush. I even said that one day I would face him”, said Gaethje at the 'media day'.

Coincidentally, Justin measured forces against Edson Barboza in March 2019 and, in about two minutes, he managed to knock out the Brazilian. Later, Gaethje scored two more victories in a row – against Donald Cerrone e Tony Ferguson – and qualified for the title fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov, where he ended up finishing in the second round, in October 2020.

Professional since August 2011, Justin gaethje He has 22 positive results and three negative results in his MMA career. He is a former UFC interim champion, as well as holding the WSOF title in the past.