Newly minted UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has revealed whether he has decided he will retire or compete again.
The 37-year-old dismantled and dethroned the previously undefeated two-division champion Ilia Topuria at the White House to capture the undisputed 155-pound throne.
After the June 14 slugfest, Gaethje said he would take some time to decide if he was going to compete again. The American has, however, stated that since he’s competed twice in 2026, he would potentially enter the octagon to defend his strap in 2027.
He’s shown interest in fighting top contender Arman Tsarukyan next or running it back with Max Holloway. Gaethje also has Conor McGregor in his crosshairs, with “The Notorious” set to return to action this weekend after a five-year layoff, to run it back against Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 329.
Will Justin Gaethje fight again?
Earlier today during an interview with UFC on TNT Sports, Justin Gaethje said he still has not decided whether he will hang up his gloves. He added that several big fights are on the horizon, and he wants to see how they play out before making a decision.
“I haven’t made a decision yet… Bunch of big fights coming up. We’ll see how it works. I fought twice this year. I never fight three times in a year… I am going to rest my body. I have a few injuries… Rest my body. See how these fights play out… See what’s up. I’m gonna enjoy being champ tho.”
Check out Justin Gaethje’s comments below:
As per insiders, since “The Highlight” plans to fight again next year, in the meantime, top contender Arman Tsarukyan will run it back with BMF champ Charles Oliveira.
Meanwhile, if Max Holloway beats “The Notorious” this weekend at UFC 329, he is game to move down to 155-pounds to challenge Gaethje.
Conor McGregor, on the other hand, has no interest in moving back down to lightweight, although Gaethje wants to ‘punch him in the face.’
