Justin Gaethje Embraces Knockout Loss to Max Holloway

UFC fighter says losing in dramatic fashion will boost his legacy

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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UFC fighter Justin Gaethje has no regrets about his knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300. Gaethje was losing the fight but accepted Holloway's invitation to engage in a final exchange, leading to a dramatic finish with Gaethje getting knocked out. Gaethje believes this type of loss will be better for his legacy than a simple decision defeat.

Why it matters

Gaethje is known for his exciting fighting style and willingness to engage in wars with his opponents. His decision to accept Holloway's invitation to brawl at the end of their fight, even though he was losing, aligns with his reputation as a must-see action fighter.

The details

Gaethje was on his way to losing a decision to Holloway when, with just 10 seconds left, Holloway invited Gaethje to meet him in the middle of the octagon and trade blows. Gaethje obliged, and was promptly knocked out with just one second remaining in the fight. While many thought it was unwise, Gaethje saw it as an opportunity he couldn't pass up, even though he knew he was going to lose the fight.

  • The fight took place at UFC 300 on February 9, 2026.

The players

Justin Gaethje

A UFC fighter known for his exciting fighting style and willingness to engage in wars with his opponents.

Max Holloway

Gaethje's opponent, who knocked him out in the final seconds of their fight at UFC 300.

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What they’re saying

“I fought a bad fight that fight, and I was in a position where I was going to lose. And once he granted me that opportunity to go out like I needed to go out or to knock him out to win – the competitor I am, I'm never going to turn that opportunity down. That's the whole reason I showed up is for the chance to win.”

— Justin Gaethje (The Pat McAfee Show)

What’s next

Gaethje has rebounded with a decision win over Rafael Fiziev and an interim lightweight title win over Paddy Pimblett, and now finds himself on the cusp of a mega title-unification bout against lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

The takeaway

Gaethje's willingness to engage in a dramatic final exchange with Holloway, even though he was losing the fight, showcases his reputation as a must-see action fighter who is willing to put on an exciting show for the fans, even at the risk of a knockout loss.