Justin Gaethje is one of the most violent and entertaining fighters in MMA today.
‘The Highlight’ is famous for delivering wild brawls and sickening knockouts inside the UFC Octagon.
Justin Gaethje has knocked out Edson Barboza, Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone, Tony Ferguson, and Dustin Poirier during his 31-fight MMA career, which began with a highlight-reel win over a future UFC star.
Kevin Croom enjoyed a five-fight run in MMA’s premier promotion between 2020 and 2022, but the most famous name on his record is the former interim UFC lightweight champion, who he fought almost a decade earlier.
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Justin Gaethje’s 61-second MMA debut
Justin Gaethje and Kevin Croom were matched up at ROF 41: Bragging Rights in August 2011.
On paper, it was a tough debut for Gaethje, as his opponent was on a four-fight winning streak after losing his first two professional MMA bouts.
In reality, Croom was tossed to the floor and knocked out cold in 61 seconds by the future UFC superstar.
A judo throw put Gaethje in top position, before Croom tried to lock up an early armbar submission.
Gaethje reacted by picking Croom up and dumping him on his head to score a slam KO Rampage Jackson would be proud of.
A couple of unnecessary ground strikes were thrown before the referee stepped in and waved the fight off.
What’s next for Justin Gaethje?
Justin Gaethje beat Rafael Fiziev to put himself back into title contention at UFC 313 in March.
The 36-year-old hoped that would be enough to secure him a shot at lightweight king, Islam Makhachev.
However, Gaethje was left seething when he found out about the UFC 317 lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira, which was booked after Makhachev decided to vacate his belt and move up to the welterweight division.
It seems Gaethje will need to pick up at least one more win before he gets another shot at UFC gold.
Paddy Pimblett’s recent callout has provided Gaethje with a potential opponent, but it’s currently unclear what the future holds for the UFC fan favorite.