Michael Johnson on upcoming fight against Ottman Azaitar at UFC Tampa; rematch with Justin Gaethje & more [Exclusive]

This will be Michael Johnson’s 30th appearance inside the Octagon

As the UFC prepares to close out its 2024 campaign with a blockbuster Fight Night at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, excitement is at an all-time high.

The event promises thrilling matchups, including a headliner between Colby Covington and Joaquin Buckley. Among the main card highlights is a lightweight clash between veteran Michael Johnson and Ottman Azaitar.

Ahead of the big event, Khel Now had the privilege of catching up with Michael Johnson for an exclusive interview. The lightweight veteran shared his thoughts on his career, his opponent, and what motivates him to keep going.

When asked about his feelings ahead of his matchup against Azaitar, Michael Johnson expressed a unique kind of excitement.

“Excited. I smile like this because everybody asks me, like, my excitement level; it’s kind of a strange thing,” Johnson said. “You know, I’ve been in the UFC for 15 years. I fight every day in the gym. I love fighting, I love competing. But I’m really excited to get in front of fans again and be in an arena and be able to perform in front of everybody. That’s what I’m really excited for.”

Michael Johnson reflected on what drew him to mixed martial arts and how the sport has impacted his life. “One thing that motivated me for mixed martial arts is just I love the sport,” he shared. “I love the fact that you’re kind of your own boss. You don’t really work for anyone, you make your own schedule. But it’s the competition—it’s the one versus one. And not to mention, I get to see the world. If I didn’t have MMA or the UFC, I wouldn’t see anywhere near as much as I’ve seen. So I’m definitely blessed.”

When asked about any specific preparations for this fight, Johnson noted that he sticks to what’s worked for him over the years. “No, it’s just been the same usual thing,” he said. “The same thing we’ve been doing for 15 years. I’m always working, always constantly improving, and just looking for ways to be better than I was yesterday.”

Michael Johnson had nothing but praise for Ottman Azaitar

Michael Johnson had positive words for his opponent, though he admitted some curiosity about Azaitar’s motivations.

“From what I see, he’s a good guy,” Johnson noted. “I’m just a little confused on why he fights. He seems like he’s a pretty wealthy guy over in Morocco. He might be a prince or something, I don’t know. Like, I’m sure they live in their castles and they probably got butlers, you know, they probably do everything. Why he wants to fight? I don’t know why. But hey, if he loves the sport that much, then so be it. But I’m here to fight for other reasons, so I think we’re gonna see that Saturday.”

Michael Johnson wants one rematch with Justin Gaethje

When asked about a potential dream opponent, Johnson had a clear answer. “It’s the rematch I always want back,” he admitted. “I always want that Justin Gaethje rematch back. I love him, but I love the way he fights. That’s why I want to get back to him because I feel like he knows he got away with a win on that one.”

Justin Gaethje (@Justin_Gaethje) x Michael Johnson – JG’s UFC debut. The lead up to this fight and the fight itself was bonkers. This is the type of fight you show someone who’s new to MMA. pic.twitter.com/6SmIaTAQus

— Hamza (@iHxmza9) November 30, 2023

Michael Johnson also shared his inspirations in MMA, highlighting veteran fighters who achieved greatness later in their careers. “In this point in my career, it’s definitely the older guys that have done great things in the sport,” he said. “Glover Teixeira winning the title at his age, Randy Couture back in the day, Michael Bisping—they’re guys I draw inspiration from. I want to be one of those guys to do everything around my age, because I have no choice. I gotta get it.

Before wrapping up, Johnson had a heartfelt message for his supporters. “Stay tuned,” he said. “We’ve been in this game for 15 years. We’ve been doing it for so long, but we have so many more years left. I promise you that we’re only getting started right now.”

Watch UFC Fight Night – Muchado vs. Buckley on 15th December 2024, 8:30 AM IST onwards LIVE on Live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD (Tamil & Telugu)

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