Faced with Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov did not seem to have difficulty, winning quickly in the second half. Before such an excellent performance, no one could believe that the Russian unbeaten fist was constantly suffering from injuries, illnesses before the dating.
Recently on Screenrab, Khabib Nurmagomedov shared what he had experienced. If according to the plan, Khabib will fly to Abu Dhabi on September 9 to prepare for the match. However, due to the unexpected mumps, khabib fever high, the face swelled like a ball. He could not practice anything until September 24 – exactly 1 month before the upper day.
“On the flight to Abu Dhabi, I felt quite tired. When I landed at the airport, I had a high fever. Everything became worse, I was immediately taken to the hospital shortly after that and spent 5 special care days,” Khabib said.
After the illness, bad luck still clung to Khabub Nurmagomedov.
“I broke my thumb before the event 10 days. There were too many troubles before the upper day, the disease was out of illness and the injury. However, I still decided to play.”
The above reasons can partly answer Khabib's hurried play against Justin Gaethje, when it is clear in terms of physical strength, Khabib Nurmagomedov is considered to be more durable than the former WSOF Gaethje champion.
“Maybe you don't notice, but I feel Gaethje wanted to give up in that match. I think I won not really thanks to my strength, but thanks to more spirit,” Khabib added.