Newly crowned UFC interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has detailed his desired two-man fight plan, and it involves the undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov and long-term rival Conor McGregor.
The 31-year-old, who is now 22-2-0, pulled off a masterclass against Tony Ferguson in the behind-closed doors main event at UFC 249 on Saturday night.
And now the American wants a match up against Khabib later this year to decide the undisputed champion of the division.
Gaethje was clear about his intentions during a fascinating press conference following his win, with Khabib firmly in his sights.
Advert
"Khabib is the best in the world. I've been working since I was four for challenges like this." he said.
"And I'm happy to represent the United States of America versus Dagestan or Russia's best.
"He's 28-0 and there's no other challenge I want right now. I want to fight him."
The American fighter went on to say that he'll then "go to Ireland and do what I got to do" in a callout to Conor McGregor.
On the subject of the Irish fighter, McGregor fuelled talk of a highly-anticipated trilogy bout with Nate Diaz on Dana White's Instagram last week.
Advert
UFC president White reposted McGregor's message to all those competing at the historic UFC 249 event in Jacksonville tonight and the outspoken Diaz decided to tell his rival to be quiet in the only he knows.
"Shut your bitchass up," Diaz wrote in the comments.
But McGregor fired back at his rival, writing: "Shut your eye lid and sign the contract!"
What do you think Gaethje should do next? Could he actually defeat Khabib and become the undisputed king of the lightweight division?
Advert
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Conor Mcgregor, Justin Gaethje, UFC News, MMA News, UFC, MMA