Justin Gaethje faced one of the most compelling and unique opponents in combat sports history when he stepped up for his initial world title defense.
The Road to UFC 324 and Gaethje`s Past Glory
On January 24, Justin Gaethje, known as ‘The Highlight,’ is scheduled to headline the first major event of the UFC’s new calendar year, where he will challenge Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324.
This upcoming bout marks the second time in his UFC career that Gaethje has competed for the interim 155lb title, following his memorable victory over Tony Ferguson back in 2020.
While Gaethje continues his pursuit of the undisputed lightweight championship in the premier organization, it is often forgotten that he was once a dominant world champion in a rival promotion, the World Series of Fighting (WSOF), now known as the Professional Fighters League (PFL).
Gaethje`s First Defense Against Nick Newell
Prior to joining the UFC roster in 2017, Gaethje built his undefeated record in WSOF. In 2014, after securing back-to-back victories, `The Highlight` claimed the inaugural WSOF lightweight championship by delivering a first-round knockout to Richard Patishnock.
For his first title defense, Gaethje was pitted against Nick Newell, one of the most remarkable figures in mixed martial arts. Newell, nicknamed ‘Notorious,’ is globally recognized for competing at an elite level despite being born with only one functional hand—a physical circumstance that appears to be a severe handicap in MMA.
Despite this apparent disadvantage, Newell established himself as one of the best 155lb fighters globally, earning him the coveted title shot against Gaethje. Entering the bout undefeated, Newell had finished all but one of his professional opponents, demanding caution from the reigning champion.
The Fight: A Near Upset
The fight began with explosive action. In the opening round, the challenger, Newell, connected with several powerful strikes that found Gaethje`s chin, visibly stunning him on multiple occasions. It was a close call that threatened to derail Gaethje’s championship reign immediately.
However, displaying his signature resilience, Gaethje successfully weathered the early storm. He began to turn the tide towards the end of the first round, utilizing his relentless forward pressure and notoriously aggressive fighting style.
The momentum continued into the second frame. Following more brutal pressure, Gaethje landed a massive right hand, forcing the referee to intervene and secure ‘The Highlight’ a successful defense via TKO stoppage.
Nick Newell`s Post-Gaethje Career
Even in defeat, Newell received immense praise from the combat sports community for his heart and skill. Following the loss to Gaethje, ‘Notorious’ rebounded strongly, securing three consecutive victories, including a win under the LFA banner.
His impressive run eventually earned Newell an opportunity to fight for a contract in the UFC on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2018. Unfortunately, he lost the bout via unanimous decision. Newell subsequently signed with Bellator MMA before ultimately retiring from the sport in 2021 after his final professional loss.
