It”s the clash of the titans as Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje will battle it out for the undisputed UFC lightweight title at UFC 254 on Saturday (Oct 24). It is the main card of the night. While Khabib “The Eagle” will look to defend his undefeated streak and title, Justin “The Highlight” will be hoping to make history by becoming the first man to beat the Russian MMA fighter.
Khabib is currently undefeated with a dominant record of 28-0 and will be the favourites to lift the championship. Gaethje, on the other hand, became the interim champion after beating Tony Ferguson at UFC 249.
ALSO CHECK: Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India: How to watch Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje match?
The bout is looked at as Khabib’s hardest test as Justin brings forth elite striking with collegiate D-1 wrestling.
Top 10 interesting facts about UFC lightweights: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje:
What are Khabib vs Gaethje’s UFC career record?
- Russian Nurmagomedov, 32, has a 28-0 record, while Gaethje, 31, is 22-2.“Khabib’s a big superstar. But if he beats Justin, he’s on his way to GOAT status,” said Dana White.
A head-to-toe breakdown of the main event:
- Khabib Nurmagomedov is one of the most dominant forces in MMA history. He’s ranked No. 2 on the UFC’s official pound-for-pound list behind Jon Jones.
- Nurmagomedov lands 4.11 significant strikes per minute with an accuracy of 49 percent. In turn, he only absorbs 1.65 significant strikes per minute, so his defensive prowess is rated at 67 percent.
- Nurmagomedov has scored eight stoppage wins in his career, though he ended many of those fights by pummelling his opponent from top position on the ground.
- Khabib’s patented ‘Dagestani Handcuffs’, fence driving trips, and wrist control make him virtually unstoppable on the canvas.
- Justin Gaethje lives up to his moniker in more ways than one, having earned nine performance bonuses in just seven fights.
- Gaethje, 31, is an offensive-minded slugger who throws tons of strikes and lands most of them.
- While eating more strikes in return is usually a recipe for disaster in the UFC, Gaethje’s 7.74 significant strikes per minute tops the UFC’s record book, and absorbing 8.37 per minute hasn’t kept the American from winning big fights.
- Gaethje’s defence is rated at 59 percent. He’s scored 19 knockouts in his career.
- Justin’s stunning power and high work rate give him a slight edge in the striking category.
Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje UFC 254 match timings, LIVE streaming venue details:
When is Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India?
Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 will be telecast live on Saturday, October 24.
What time is Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India?
Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India will telecast at 11:30 pm.
Where will Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 be held?
Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 will be held at the Flash Forum Arena in Las Island, Abu Dhabi.
How to watch Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India?
You can watch Khabib vs Gaethje UFC 254 LIVE in India on Sony Sports Networks. You can also watch the match on Airtel TV and SonyLIV.