Justin Gaethje claims ‘BMF’ title with stunning head kick knockout at UFC 291

Benny A. King

In a jaw-dropping display of skill and power, Justin Gaethje cemented his status as the rightful successor to Jorge Masvidal as the ‘Baddest Motherf***er’ (BMF) in the UFC.

Gaethje delivered a thunderous head kick knockout to Dustin Poirier, earning him the ‘BMF’ title at UFC 291.

The highly anticipated main event featured two exciting lightweight contenders, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, facing off in a five-round battle for the prestigious ‘BMF’ title. The epic showdown took place at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July 29.

The event was a rematch, as the two had previously clashed in April 2018, with Poirier emerging victorious via fourth-round TKO.

From the opening bell, both athletes unleashed a barrage of heavy strikes, captivating the crowd with their thrilling striking exchanges.

However, it was in the second round that Gaethje lived up to his nickname, ‘The Highlight,’ by delivering a devastating head kick to Poirier, leaving him unconscious on the canvas.

The electrifying head kick knockout instantly became a highlight-reel moment, and Gaethje celebrated his victory in trademark fashion, executing a backflip off the top of the octagon.

Interestingly, Gaethje’s head kick knockout at UFC 291 bore a striking resemblance to Leon Edwards’ head kick finish against Kamaru Usman at UFC 278, which also occurred at the same venue, the Delta Center in Utah.

After his impressive victory, Justin Gaethje wasted no time expressing his aspirations to compete for the UFC lightweight title. In his octagon interview with Joe Rogan, ‘The Highlight’ stated his desire to prove himself as the best in the world.

With Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira set to face off in October, Gaethje made it clear that his sights were firmly set on the UFC lightweight championship. He vowed to give his utmost effort in pursuit of his goal, regardless of the outcome.