Gaethje celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Justin Gaethje 's reign in the lightweight division (up to 70,3kg) has barely begun, but the race for his next challenge is already stirring up the category. The American revealed who he believes is ahead in line for the belt and surprised everyone by not mentioning Charles Oliveira , the current BMF title holder and former undisputed champion.
In an interview with RMC Sport Combat, 'The Highlight' made it clear that he doesn't believe Topuria has done enough to deserve another title shot so soon after his loss. According to the champion, Tsarukyan is the frontrunner in the title race, while Holloway is also ahead of 'El Matador' in the division's pecking order.
See too
“Ilia isn’t going to fight me next. Why would he fight me? Arman deserves it much more than him. I didn’t knock Ilia out, I wasn’t lucky. I defeated him. He’ll have to win before fighting for the belt. Do you think Ilia should fight me instead of Arman? Or instead of Holloway?” Gaethje declared.
The champion's statements increase doubts about the future of the division. The Armenian remains among the top names in the rankings and was already considered a strong contender for the title even before the American's victory. The Hawaiian, in turn, continues his winning streak after his triumph over Conor McGregor at UFC 329 and also emerges as a serious option for the lightweight champion's next challenge.
In addition to ruling out an immediate rematch against Topuria, Gaethje made it clear that he intends to defend his belt against whoever he considers most deserving at the moment. This statement reinforces the uncertainty surrounding the lightweight division, which also includes names like Charles Oliveira vying for a future title opportunity.
Justin Gaethje's MMA fighters
Gaethje promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Justin Gaethje , 37, is one of the biggest names in recent UFC lightweight history and currently holds the title. Known for his aggressive style and constant battles inside the octagon, the American has established himself as one of the most exciting fighters in the organization.
The athlete began his professional MMA career in 2011 and debuted in the UFC in 2017. Throughout his career, 'The Highlight' built a record of 28 wins and five losses. Among his main triumphs are victories over Ilia Topuria , Dustin Poirier , Tony Ferguson , Michael Chandler , Rafael Fiziev , Donald Cerrone , Edson Barboza , and Michael Johnson . In addition to the undisputed lightweight title, Gaethje also won the interim title in the division and the BMF belt before reaching the top of the category.
Exclusive: Michael PQD talks about his brutal UFC debut victory.
Comments