Gaethje sparring partner reveals UFC 329 camp details, explains cut-inducing uppercuts

Justin Gaethje's primary sparring partner Nikita Kulishin has revealed key tactical details from the camp that led to Gaethje's win over Ilia Topuria. Kulishin said Gaethje deliberately used deep, unconventional head movement because he knew Topuria rarely throws high kicks, allowing him to attack from low angles with his signature uppercuts. The same uppercut motion opened a cut on Kulishin during sparring in the exact same spot Topuria was cut in the first round. Kulishin credited Trevor Wittman's coaching for crafting the precise game plan that played out in the fight.