Column By Mike Bibb
Admittedly, I don’t watch much mixed martial arts fighting, although I’m not opposed to it. If a couple of guys want to jump into a ring and punch, kick, and choke each other — and get paid to do it — that’s fine with me.
Obviously, some are better at it than others.
One of the better ones is Safford, Arizona’s Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje, 37, an MMA/UFC fighter who’s won numerous awards and accolades during his time in high school (Safford High), college (University of Northern Colorado), and tenure in professional fighting.
He’s also involved in various online merchandise: toys, T-shirts, videos, posters, and now, Timex Watches.
While visiting Sierra Vista, Arizona, the other day, I browsed the local Walmart. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, just killing time until I had an appointment somewhere else.
Passing through the various aisles and departments, I happened to notice a Timex Watch countertop advertisement displaying photos of three UFC fighters.
Didn’t pay much attention to it until I got closer and immediately recognized the guy in the center picture — Justin Gaethje, of Safford. The very same dude who appears on a building-sized painting on the outside wall of Ginaveve’s Market Place in Downtown Safford.
“Wow,” I immediately thought, “Justin has gone international. His face is now associated with Timex watches. Amazing!”
Which goes to prove, if a person has enough gumption and is willing to put in the time and effort to succeed — through all the ups and downs along the way — there’s a very good chance he/she will become successful in whatever they choose to do.
Now, suppose I ever see an electric car called “The Highlight” zooming past me on I-10. In that case, I’ll immediately call Elon and ask him what kind of deal he can make me on a brand new, fully accessorized electric car, including extended mileage batteries and extra fire extinguishers.
All I probably have to mention is “I’m a friend of Justin, so don’t screw with me!”
The opinions expressed in this editorial are those of the author.
