UFC 254 results: Final fight stats for Khabib vs. Gaethje

On paper, interim UFC lightweight champ Justin Gaethje looked like the fighter who would give Khabib Nurmagomedov his biggest test. Gaethje came into his title unification matchup with the 155-pound titleholder with legit wresting credentials, knockout power, mental strength, confidence and a more patient and evolved striking game than he had when he was the World Series of Fighting lightweight kingpin. Some MMA pundits felt comfortable enough to pick Gaethje to score an upset victory and end Nurmagomedov’s 28-fight unbeaten streak in the main event of UFC 254.

Alas, that was not to be. Nurmagomedov showed why he has been considered one of the best in the game over the past few years.

Gaethje did land several heavy low kicks in the first round and some hard punches. Those strikes might have bothered Nurmagomedov, but he never slowed his pace. He relentlessly pursued Gaethje around the octagon as if to test the American’s cardio and wrestling skills.

Nurmagomedov failed on his first takedown attempt, but he was successful on his second shot. Fortunately for Gaethje, Nurmagomedov did not have much time to work on the ground as that takedown came in the closing seconds of the first stanza.

Gaethje was not so lucky in the second round. Nurmagomedov scored an early takedown and quickly transitioned to a triangle choke, which put Gaethje to sleep at the 1:34 mark of the second round.

An emotional Nurmagomedov took his gloves off after the win and told UFC commentator Jon Anik, “Today I want to say it was my last fight. No way I’m gonna come here without my father. It was first time after what happened with my father. When UFC called me with Justin, I talked with my mother three days. She don’t (want me) to go fight without father, but I promised her it’s gonna be my last fight. And if I give my word, I have to follow this.”

Nurmagomedov finishes his MMA career with an unbeaten 29-0 record. That includes three submission wins in defense of the UFC lightweight crown.