Dana will meet with Justin Gaethje to define the athlete's future: 'We need to understand each other'

D. White at a press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC

The year 2019 served to put Justin gaethje as a reality in MMA and launch the athlete as a reality in the lightweight division (up to 70,3kg.). However, after denying the athlete the chance to face Conor McGregor and stating that the Irishman can 'jump the queue' and face Khabib in his next challenge, the organization and the American ended up coming into conflict. Aware of the situation, the company's president, Dana White, stated that he will talk to the fighter to try to resolve the case. The statement was made at the press conference after the UFC 246.

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“Many have asked me about Justin gaethje. The reality is that I and Justin gaethje we need to talk face to face. I will do this in the next few weeks.”, said the boss.

After the UFC confirmed Conor's return for January 18 and stated that Donald Cerrone would be the opponent, Gaethje made harsh criticisms of the company, with Conor ranking behind the athlete in the official rankings and the 'Cowboy' is coming off a tough defeat against Justin. The trigger was the possibility of the Irishman fighting for the title in case of victory over Cerrone – which happened.

In 2019, Gaethje had one of the best looks of his career. In addition to beating 'Cowboy', the North American also achieved a great victory over the Brazilian Edson Barboza. The triumphs placed Justin in third place in the category ranking, behind only the former interim champion Dustin poirier, Tony Ferguson and the champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Dana, however, recognizes the fighter's achievements and praised the athlete's performance in his last three victories.

“I like Gaethje. He is an incredible and very talented boy. He and I need to understand each other”, concluded the 'boss'.