Justin Gaethje is widely favored to earn the next title shot against Ilia Topuria. The 36-year-old former UFC interim lightweight champion and BMF title holder has been in excellent form, winning three of his last four fights and recently defeating top contender Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313 in March.
Gaethje believes the UFC “owes” him the next title opportunity, even threatening retirement if he isn’t granted a fight against the winner of the Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira bout at UFC 317. Although Gaethje attended the title fight, he hasn’t confirmed that he will be next in line, and UFC President Dana White has even suggested he consider retirement after the fight.
Alternatively, the title shot might go to Paddy Pimblett or the top contender Arman Tsarukyan. Gaethje’s rival has described Gaethje’s desire for the title fight as “selfish,” but Gaethje’s explosive fighting style and relentless aggression, highlighted by his famous leg kicks, make him an exciting contender.
Eddie Alvarez, Gaethje’s former opponent and a former UFC lightweight champion, supports Gaethje’s next shot at the title. Alvarez, who gave Gaethje his first professional loss in 2017, admires Gaethje’s power and leg kicks and is eager to see him challenge Topuria next.
Arman Tsarukyan is also a strong contender, having gone 9-1 since a loss to the current champion Islam Makhachev. Tsarukyan was originally scheduled to fight for the title but pulled out due to injury, and many, including Makhachev’s coach Javier Mendes and Eddie Alvarez, think Tsarukyan could pose the biggest challenge to Topuria. However, Alvarez admits that while Tsarukyan might be the toughest opponent, Gaethje’s fights are the most thrilling for fans.
Fan Take: This news is significant for fight fans because it sets up compelling narratives and potential matchups for the lightweight title, particularly highlighting Gaethje’s unique and aggressive fighting style. How the title contenders are chosen and who ultimately faces Topuria could shape the future of the UFC lightweight division and excite fans with intense, high-stakes battles.
