James Vick Calls Knockout Loss to Justin Gaethje the ‘Worst Night of My Life’

James Vick entered UFC Fight Night 135 brimming with confidence, but he exited the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Neb., on Saturday night a humbled man.

That, of course, was a product of a vicious first-round knockout victory by Justin Gaethje. The former World Series of Fighting titlist folded Vick with an overhand right 1:27 into the opening round of the evening’s lightweight headliner. Heading into the matchup, Vick had questioned his opponent’s fighting style and potential for longevity. After the fight, Vick was all class.

“Worst night of my life last night,” Vick wrote on social media. “Thank you [Justin Gaethje] for the opportunity. [Though] confident in myself I did always respect you. I said what I did to get and promote the fight. You are a class act and I do appreciate your kind words last night.”

Vick began his promotional tenure with victories in eight of his first nine appearances and had won four straight leading up to his first headlining appearance. The 31-year-old known as “The Texecutioner” offered no excuses for his performance on Saturday.

“I was in shape, healthy and confident. I blew it. For all those that believed in me and support me, I am truly sorry,” he wrote. “I will go back and keep training and loving this life of being a fighter and a martial artist. This is the life I have chose and I guess this comes with the territory. Thanks to all my friends, family and teammates for the support and thank you [UFC] for the opportunity.”

Worst night of my life last night. Thank you @justin_gaethje for the opportunity. Tho confident in myself I did always respect you. I said what I said to get and promote the fight. You are a class act and I do appreciate your kind words last night. I have no excuses. I was in shape, healthy and confident. I blew it. For all those that believed in me and support me I am truly sorry. I will go back and keep training and loving this life of being a fighter and a martial artist. This is the life I have chose and I guess this comes with the territory. Thanks to all my friends, family and teammates for the support and thank you @UFC for the opportunity.

A post shared by James Vick (@jamesvickmma) on Aug 26, 2018 at 6:44am PDT