Khabib Nurmagomedov Tells Justin Gaethje to “Shut up”, Following Latest Title Shot Demand
Nurmagomedov and Gaethje (right)(image via UFC/YouTube)
By FCF Staff
Justin Gaethje has made it clear that if he isn’t tapped for another shot at the UFC’s lightweight title, chaos could ensue. But, Khabib Nurmagomedov isn’t backing off from pushing for Islam Makhachev’s title shot.
Gaethje is coming off a decision win over Michael Chandler at UFC 268 earlier this month, in what was one of the year’s best tilts. Leading up to the contest, Gaethje repeatedly said that if he won the bout, he expected to fight for the belt next.
Since his win, Gaethje has repeated that if he isn’t booked for a championship fight next, issues with the UFC would arise. In a recent interview with ESPN, Gaethje argued that if he’s passed over for a title shot, it would be a “travesty”.
While responding to an Instagram post documenting those comments, however, Nurmagomedov reportedly said this (quote via MMA Fighting).
“In last 8 fight, you got finished 3 times Justin. You had an opportunity to become champion, but you fell asleep,” Nurmagomedov wrote, adding a sleeping face emoji.
“Islam [Makhachev] is on the 9 win streak, 3 fight in 2021 and all finishes. Just shut up and admit that Islam deserves this title shot, not you.”
Makhachev fought at UFC 267 last month and scored a quick, submission win over Dan Hooker.
Gaethje faced Nurmagomedov for the UFC lightweight title in October 2020 and was choked out in round two.
