Justin Gaethje is known for his relentless action in the Octagon, but according to his coach Ali Abderaziz, he’s prepared to retire if he doesn’t get a third chance to win the UFC lightweight championship. Gaethje aims to face the winner of the UFC 317 main event between Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria, both contenders for the vacant lightweight title. The title became available after Islam Makhachev vacated it to move up to welterweight and chase a second title in that division.
Abderaziz spoke on Submission Radio, saying, “Justin fights the winner. He’s won three of his last four fights and has been crucial to the UFC multiple times. He’s given so much to the sport and said, ‘If I’m fighting for a title or hanging up my gloves.’” Although Gaethje was initially passed over for the title shot in favor of Topuria, who moved up from featherweight, he previously faced Oliveira—who is a former champion—and lost to him in May 2022.
Gaethje earned the interim lightweight title in May 2020 by defeating Tony Ferguson but lost the chance to become the undisputed champion when Khabib Nurmagomedov submitted him later that year. Throughout his UFC career, Gaethje has consistently earned fight or performance bonuses, participating in 14 UFC bouts with 12 of them earning bonuses. Known for taking fights on short notice against top-tier opponents, Gaethje has expressed frustration with the UFC, feeling somewhat undervalued despite his contributions.
Abderaziz conveyed Gaethje’s sentiments: “He’s a man of principle and feels strongly about this. He told me recently that if he doesn’t get a title shot, he feels disrespected by the UFC. He loves being a UFC fighter but feels like the UFC needs to show more appreciation for him.” However, Abderaziz also believes the UFC does care for Gaethje and will eventually deliver what he wants, depending on the outcome of the Oliveira vs. Topuria fight.
Gaethje has won three of his last four matches, with his only recent loss being a knockout by Max Holloway in a thrilling UFC 300 fight. Most recently, he defeated Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, returning to the winning column.
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Fan Take: This news is a big deal for fight fans because Justin Gaethje has been a fan-favorite for his aggressive style and willingness to take on any challenger. His potential retirement if denied a title shot could shake up the lightweight division and force the UFC to reconsider how it rewards fighters who consistently deliver exciting performances.
