Justin Gaethje is well aware that defeating Max Holloway at UFC 300 is a challenging task. The BMF titleholder is gearing up to defend his belt against Holloway in a highly anticipated matchup with potential lightweight title implications for the victor.
Although Gaethje is currently the favored contender, he remains focused on the task at hand, acknowledging that Holloway is a formidable opponent.
In Gaethje’s perspective, overcoming the challenges posed by Max Holloway involves addressing the Hawaiian fighter’s exceptional cardio and durability.
Gaethje recognizes that Holloway’s ability to sustain damage and maintain pressure in the later rounds, particularly during championship rounds four and five, could be a key factor in the bout.
To counter this, Gaethje prioritizes the conditioning of his legs, emphasizing their crucial role in the later stages of a fight. The fighter also emphasizes the significance of controlling an opponent’s feet to minimize the risk of getting hit.
Justin Gaethje acknowledges Max Holloway’s unique fighting style, describing him as one of the best fighters in the UFC. He appreciates Holloway’s awkwardness, seeing it as an advantageous quality in the octagon.
Gaethje recognizes Holloway’s ability to create angles, leverage his long reach at 145 lbs, and execute effective counter-strikes with relentless pressure. Gaethje acknowledges Holloway’s wealth of experience, further highlighting the challenges he poses in the upcoming matchup.
Understanding the significance of Max Holloway’s exceptional cardio, Gaethje has already commenced his training camp with a focus on improving his own conditioning for UFC 300. While Gaethje anticipates potential challenges from Holloway’s boxing and footwork, he expresses confidence in possessing the necessary skills to secure victory.
Looking ahead, should Justin Gaethje emerge victorious against Max Holloway at UFC 300, he envisions earning a lightweight title shot against Islam Makhachev.
Gaethje’s recent accomplishments, including a knockout victory over Dustin Poirier in July to claim the BMF belt and a decision win over Rafael Fiziev, underscore his credentials as a top contender in the lightweight division.
