It seems that Justin Gaethje’s career in the UFC may be approaching its conclusion.
Following Gaethje’s statement that he would consider retiring if his upcoming fight wasn’t for a title, his coach shared candid thoughts about the fighter’s future ahead of UFC 324. At 37, “The Highlight” has already achieved a remarkable list of accomplishments that make him a clear Hall of Fame contender. The only milestone he has yet to reach is becoming an undisputed champion.
Gaethje has eagerly awaited this chance after securing the interim lightweight title by defeating Paddy Pimblett. He views that victory as another significant achievement for one of the sport’s legends in the division.
Justin Gaethje expressed surprise at his performance against Paddy Pimblett, recognizing the threat posed by such a dangerous opponent. While Saturday’s main event marked a major step up for “The Buddy,” Pimblett was still considered the favorite against the seasoned lightweight veteran. Dustin Poirier mentioned Pimblett’s first UFC loss following Poirier’s retirement remarks slated for 2025. Poirier called the outcome “one point behind the legend,” prompting Gaethje to respond in a UFC interview. He believes the established stars in the division remain ahead of the rising fighters who have emerged recently.
“We’re up by three points,” Gaethje told UFC News. “He (Poirier) beat Benoît Saint-Denis, I beat (Rafael) Fiziev, and I just beat Paddy. So that’s three points behind at present. (Ilia) Topuria beat Max (Holloway), so it could be 3-1, but I want to get revenge for that.”
Gaethje’s 3-1 tally doesn’t include some of the recent big-name victories by up-and-coming fighters, even though the veterans have also had their moments. Most notably, Ilia Topuria not only defeated Max Holloway in their latest matchup but also knocked out Charles Oliveira this year to claim the vacant lightweight title. Topuria’s last three wins, all by knockout over Oliveira, Holloway, and Alexander Volkanovski, have solidified his reputation as a formidable finisher. For Gaethje to exact revenge and halt his next opponent’s unbeaten streak, he’ll need to bring an extraordinary performance.
Fan Take: This development is crucial for fight fans as it signals a potential turning point in the lightweight division, with Gaethje’s legacy and future hanging in the balance. Watching a seasoned warrior like Gaethje face fresh, unstoppable talent highlights the ongoing evolution of the sport and the endless pursuit of greatness in MMA.
