Conor McGregor believes Justin Gaethje is capable of knocking out Khabib Nurmagomedov tonight.
Nurmagomedov defends his lightweight title against Gaethje at UFC 254 on Fight Island in Abu Dhabi.
And while McGregor - who lost to Nurmagomedov two years ago - claims the champion is the stronger on the ground, he insists Gaethje has the power to win by KO.
"Khabib is going to be on the back foot from the bell," he said. "Khabib is going to be trembling in there like he always does. He's the most easily backed-up fighter in the game.
"Gaethje will know this and he will get low on his stance and Gaethje’s style is a style to get in and beat that jab nice and low and while Khabib’s head is up high, come in with a big shot and he could knock him out. He could very, very, very well knock him clean out.
"He’s got good wrestling but does he have grappling with his wrestling? I do not believe so.
"I believe if Khabib gets him down it could be over early in the first. I’d probably favour Khabib."
McGregor will have one eye on the winner of tonight's fight, despite verbally agreeing to take on Dustin Poirier early next year.
The rivals - who fought in 2014 - are set to clash for a second time on January 23.
But contracts have not been signed - and a win for Gaethje tonight could see McGregor call out the new champion.
