Khabib Nurmagomedov Questions UFC 300 Matchup Between Gaethje and Holloway

02 March 2024

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov has voiced scepticism regarding the forthcoming clash between Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway at UFC 300.

Scheduled for April 13, 2024, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, UFC 300 promises to be a stacked event, with Gaethje defending his BMF title against former featherweight champion Holloway. During a recent interview with MMA Junkie on his tour to Toronto, Nurmagomedov questioned the matchup, suggesting it has disrupted the lightweight title picture.

Nurmagomedov expressed his opinion on the matter, stating, "You know, all respect for Max Holloway but I don’t know and I don’t understand why UFC make this fight, Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway. It’s no make sense." He proposed an alternative scenario, suggesting that Holloway should have faced Ilia Topuria next, possibly in September. Additionally, he indicated that Gaethje should have squared off against Islam Makhachev, ideally in May or June. Nurmagomedov also referred to a bout between Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira scheduled for April, suggesting that the winners of these matchups should contend for the title towards the end of the year, preferably in Abu Dhabi.

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While acknowledging that his comments reflect his personal perspective, Nurmagomedov's remarks highlight the complexities and strategic considerations involved in matchmaking within the UFC. As the MMA community eagerly anticipates UFC 300, Nurmagomedov's insights add depth to the ongoing discourse surrounding the event and its implications for the future of the sport.