Justin Gaethje has clarified the condition under which he will compete in the UFC again.
The former BMF champion expressed disappointment after being passed over for the upcoming lightweight title opportunity at UFC 317. Instead, former champion Charles Oliveira, whom Gaethje has previously faced, was selected to challenge the undefeated Ilia Topuria for the vacant championship during this year`s International Fight Week.
Analyzing the decision, UFC analyst Din Thomas noted Oliveira`s recent record of 2 wins and 2 losses in his last four bouts, contrasting with Gaethje`s 3-1 run which includes a notable knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 in April 2024. Thomas suggested Gaethje would have presented a more thrilling matchup for Topuria, but believed the knockout defeat likely influenced the UFC`s choice to proceed with Oliveira.
In response to the title snub, Gaethje`s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, controversially stated that Gaethje would retire if he wasn`t granted a title opportunity. This would represent Gaethje`s third attempt at an undisputed title, having gone 0-2 in previous championship contests after holding the interim belt. The situation drew parallels to his rival Dustin Poirier, who received a third title shot against Islam Makhachev last year.
Stating he is no longer fighting purely for enjoyment, Justin Gaethje has now personally addressed his manager’s retirement ultimatum.
Justin Gaethje`s Condition: Only Fight the Winner of Topuria vs. Oliveira
Despite being mentioned as a potential opponent for other prominent contenders, such as Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett, it appears Gaethje is determined to secure nothing less than a lightweight title fight at this stage of his career.
Gaethje feels he is owed a championship opportunity, particularly following his strong performance and near-finish against top contender Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313.
Speaking to MMA Fighting’s Jose Youngs, Gaethje stated his clear intention: “I’m waiting for the winner of Ilia and Charles.”
He reinforced his position, adding, “I’ll be there. That’s [who] I wanna fight.”
Commenting further on his manager`s retirement threat, Gaethje said, “Let’s see how it goes.”
He acknowledged the emotional aspect of the sport but aimed for clarity: “Catch me on a certain day. I’ll tell you a certain thing. It’s a very emotional sport, but, I try not to speak too out of pocket when I’m emotional, which is right now.”
Gaethje concluded by confirming his plan to fight again, but with a non-negotiable condition: “So, I’m gonna fight again in the future. Has to be the champion.”
Justin Gaethje Reacts to Ilia Topuria Discussing Welterweight Move
While preparing for his upcoming challenge for the lightweight title, Ilia Topuria has also publicly discussed the possibility of moving up to the welterweight division in the future, potentially eyeing a super fight against Islam Makhachev at a higher weight class and chasing a third belt.
Topuria recently captured the featherweight title and successfully defended it against Max Holloway before setting his sights on the lightweight division. His comments about welterweight add another layer to his future ambitions.
Regarding Topuria`s potential plans to move up in weight, Gaethje commented, “I can’t control any of that, so I don’t spend no energy on it.”
He then offered a blunt assessment: “But, sounds stupid to me.”
Gareth Pendleton