Justin Gaethje will be out as he focuses on recovering from the damage sustained at UFC 300. ‘The Highlight’ faced Max Holloway on the night for the BMF title in one of the most anticipated fights on the historic card. Gaethje, however, found himself on the wrong end of the ‘highlight reel’ as he suffered a brutal knockout at the hands of ‘Blessed’ in the final seconds of the fifth round of the fight.

Gaethje also broke his nose in the fight as Holloway managed to land a spinning back-kick early; something that may have compromised Gaethje’s ability to breathe. ‘The Highlight’ is said to be lit up by more than 180 significant strikes, with close to half of them being landed on his head.  

As such, speaking to MMA Hangout, Gaethje revealed that he is now focused on taking care of his health and recovery. He stated, “Metaphorically, I could be ready tomorrow, but physically, I do want to take care of myself. I do think that repeated concussions, with me going to sleep like that, me receiving that shot, it would be foolish for me to jump back into training anytime before 180 days…”

He further went on to reveal that he still plans to train and stay in shape, but taking care of his brain, especially after suffering from head trauma, is a priority for the upcoming months. This comment drew a large response from a number of prominent figures in the MMA world, including former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, and renowned striking coach who works with Mike Tyson, Rafael Cordeiro. Here’s a look at what the fans and experts had to say.

Aljamain Sterling and fans side with Justin Gaethje’s decision to take a break from the Octagon

According to ‘The Funkmaster,’ Gaethje’s decision to take time off to recover sets a great example for others in the sport. In several instances, life after fighting has become rather difficult with the consequences of head trauma or injuries.

Aljamain Sterling: Love this. Self-care. Fighters need to protect each other so we can all have longevity AFTER fighting

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Fans humorously pointed out that Gaethje’s choice of words in his statement might be a result of the brain damage from Holloway’s strikes.

I think he meant “theoretically”. Blessed definitely cooked his brain a little.

While others were more serious in their response as they pointed out Tony Ferguson as an example of what not to do in your career. ‘El Cucuy’ was on a 12-fight winning streak before he suffered a brutal beatdown at the hands of Gaethje at UFC 249 in 2020. He then lost to Charles Oliveira in the same year and is currently on a 7 fight-losing streak.

He will forever be one of my favorite fighters. He did his best to live up to the myth of being “the most violent fighter” in the UFC. But the human body can only take so much. I would hate to see him turn into another Tony Ferguson who just doesn’t know when to call it a day and move on with life. I know it’s easier said than done. They’re ain’t got nothing else to proof. All them fighters have accomplished things most people on this earth could only dream of.

Some fans also showcased their appreciation for Gaethje’s decision to focus on his mental and physical well-being in a sport where showing toughness may not exactly be the right call in every situation.

Love to hear that he’s actually taking care of himself. So many fights don’t

This sentiment was also echoed by Rafael Cordeiro, who rightfully pointed out that a fighter’s health comes above all else.

Great decision champ. Your health first.

But some fans also pointed out that Gaethje’s fighting style has seen him accrue a massive amount of damage throughout his career and as such, retiring after a brutal knockout may be the right move in their opinion.

I’m glad he’s doing this, but even afterwards, how many more should he really take? If we’re truly thinking about health longevity then he should retire

While his decision may disappoint some eager for his return to the Octagon, it sure does outline the necessity of prioritizing health and well-being in a sport known for its physical demands and risks.