Justin Gaethje raises his voice, rejects fight against Paddy Pimblett and sets date to face Ilia Topuria in the UFC

Ilia Topuria (left) and Justin gaethje are UFC highlights. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

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After Ilia Topuria knock off Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 317 and win the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg), a question began to dominate the backstage: who will be his first challenger? Among the names considered are Paddy Pimblett, historic rival of the Spanish, Arman Tsarukyan, current number one in the ranking, and Justin gaethje, who considers himself the legitimate worthy of the dispute.

In an interview with ESPN, Gaethje reiterated his desire to face Topuria in November and revealed that he already has that goal in mind. The former BMF champion completely rejects the possibility of facing Pimblett and stated that if the UFC opts for that direction, it will be a clear sign that the organization no longer has serious plans for him.

"I hope it's against Ilia, I hope it's in November, and I hope it's at Madison Square Garden. That's what I'm banking on and trying to express, but you never know with the UFC. I can only worry about what's within my reach, and that's how ready I'll be for my next fight... Definitely not (I'll fight Pimblett). If that's the path they want me to take, then I don't think they need me anymore," Gaethje said.

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Gaethje argues that the UFC should follow a meritocratic system and considers it unfair to be treated as someone who refused fights, as Arman TsarukyanHe believes he shouldn't have to prove himself again.

"I signed based on a meritocratic system. And I've always lived by that. If they want to give the fight to Arman, that's fine. He had the chance and backed out. These are different scenarios. If I'm put in the same position and have to fight again to secure my spot, I'll be very upset about that," the American continued.

Gaethje plans to end his career with belts and a fight at UFC Casa Branca

In his ideal plan, Gaethje would beat Topuria, defend the belt against Max Holloway at the White House and ends his career with the UFC linear and BMF titles.

“Best case scenario: I beat Topuria later this year, defend the belt against Holloway on the White House lawn, and then retire with the BMF belt and the linear champion belt,” imagined the former UFC BMF champion.

Paddy Pimblett takes the lead in the race to face Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria in face with Paddy Pimblett No. UFC 317. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Despite the desire to Justin gaethje to be the next challenger of Ilia Topuria, everything indicates that Paddy Pimblett is ahead in this race. After knocking out charles do brox No. UFC 317, the Spanish champion called the British to step into the octagon, and the two engaged in a tense staredown, including a shove, fueling the promotion for a possible duel.

IT'S GETTING HEATED #UFC317

Is Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett next?! pic.twitter.com/sWIEMbquQi

- UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) June 29, 2025