Justin Gaethje says he is training for his UFC Freedom 250 fight against Ilia Topuria with the mindset of a man who just got knocked out, using his UFC 300 loss to Max Holloway as daily motivation.
Speaking to Grind City Media ahead of the June 14 title unification bout at the White House, Gaethje described how he approaches fight camp.
“Coming off of losses, I’m much more dangerous than I am coming off wins. That’s the human mind, and it’s just a tricky, tricky situation to be in when you’re being successful, to stay as committed to the process as you need to. But there’s always a UFC 300 quick reminder — nice knockout. So again, I’m training with the thought of I just got knocked out by Max Holloway. I have had two wins since then, and yeah, it’s been awesome. They tried to get rid of me. They don’t want to get rid of me — obviously I’m a great fighter for the company. But I have held off these young, up-and-coming fighters.”
Gaethje was direct about his intentions for fight night.
“These guys are all up-and-comers, and they’re all coming for me. Every time I’ve got the opportunity, I have held them off. I am here for a reason. I’m here because I’m one of the best in the world. I am fighting a guy that is absolutely incredible, but I have a great coach and we’re going to have a great plan. I’m going to change his face, just like I always do to all my opponents.”