The UFC 313 bout between Rafael Fiziev and Justin Gaethje was always expected to be an intense one, and it did not disappoint, earning the Fight of the Night award. Both fighters consistently deliver thrilling performances, and their latest encounter was reminiscent of their first meeting in England back in 2023. On both occasions, Fiziev took the first round, but Gaethje managed to turn the tables, ultimately winning by unanimous decision. What caught everyone’s attention, however, was Gaethje’s unusual choice of attire – he fought without the UFC logo on his gloves, a rare sight in the octagon.
In the post-fight press conference, Gaethje addressed the issue, explaining that the gloves had started to fray backstage, and to prevent any threads from getting into his or his opponent’s eyes, they were taped over with adhesive tape. It’s worth noting that fighters often begin their warm-ups hours before the actual fight, which can lead to unexpected situations like this. Gaethje revealed that the UFC had wanted him to change gloves to display their logo, but his superstition got the better of him. “They wanted me to change them, and I was like, ‘no way’,” he said. “I’d already put them on, I’d warmed up with them, and there was no way I was going to switch to new ones.”
Gaethje’s win was a hard-fought one, with the American coming close to finishing Fiziev off with a stunning uppercut in the second round. His victory was all the more impressive given his insistence on sticking with his original gloves, despite the UFC’s requests to change them. It’s not the first time Gaethje has shown his stubborn side – in his 2017 debut against Michael Johnson, he won by KO in the second round, then proceeded to celebrate by attempting a backflip off the cage, despite being visibly exhausted. After slipping multiple times, he eventually managed to complete his signature move.
Superstition is a common phenomenon among fighters, but Gaethje takes it to a whole new level. His refusal to change gloves, even when asked by the UFC, is a testament to his unique personality and quirks. With his win on Saturday, Gaethje has now earned almost a million euros in bonuses alone, a staggering amount that reflects his dedication and perseverance in the octagon. As he continues to make waves in the lightweight division, one thing is certain – Justin Gaethje is a force to be reckoned with, both in and out of the ring.
The Gaethje Enigma
Gaethje’s eccentricities have become an integral part of his charm, with fans and pundits alike fascinated by his unwavering commitment to his superstitions. Whether it’s his iconic celebrations or his unyielding insistence on sticking to his routines, Gaethje is a true original. As he looks to continue his reign in the lightweight division, it will be interesting to see how his superstitions and quirks continue to shape his performances. One thing is certain, however – with Gaethje, you can always expect the unexpected.
In the world of MMA, where mental toughness and physical prowess are paramount, Gaethje’s superstitions may seem unusual, but they are also a key part of his success. By embracing his quirks and refusing to compromise on his values, Gaethje has carved out a unique niche for himself in the sport. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the octagon, fans can’t help but be drawn to his charismatic and uncompromising approach to the sport. Love him or hate him, Justin Gaethje is undeniably a true original, and his legacy in the world of MMA is only just beginning to unfold.