Former champion's coach praises Justin Gaethje and considers the fighter's retirement.

Justin Gaethje promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

PUBLICITY:

One of the most popular names in MMA history, Justin Gaethje is still reaping the rewards after shocking the world and beating Ilia Topuria at UFC Casa Branca . Despite this, the lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) doesn't seem eager to return to the world's most famous octagon. In fact, he has spoken more than once about the possibility of retiring. In this context, coach John Wood came out publicly this Sunday (27) to praise the fighter.

According to Wood, the mind behind the success of names like Merab Dvalishvili , the decision regarding the next step in the American's career will likely involve financial considerations. At 37 years old, Gaethje is the oldest champion in the history of the division, and Arman Tsarukyan is his legitimate challenger.

See too

Fearing the worst, UFC commentator advises Raoni Barcelos to retire after scare in the octagon.

UFC commentator shocked by Raoni Barcelos' 'blackout' and details critical moment: 'The most terrifying scene I've ever seen'

Supernatural! Charles Oliveira's partner details his presence and conversation with the late Allan Oliveira during his victory at UFC Vegas 121.

“(Justin) is just a guy who always finds ways to win. I don’t know if there’s anyone in this sport who’s tougher than him. Whether he fights again or not will probably be decided by dollars and cents. I hope he goes out there, gets the biggest payday of his life and rides off into the sunset,” he said in an interview with 'Home Of Fight'.

🤝Coach John Wood believes Justin Gaethje has done everything there is to do in MMA.

"[Justin] is just a guy that always finds ways to win. I don't know if there's anyone in this sport that's tougher than him.

Whether or not he fights again is probably decided on dollars and… pic.twitter.com/TItR3qpIUZ

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 27, 2026

Justin Gaethje's MMA History

Justin Gaethje flaunts UFC belts after victory at the White House. Photo: Reproduction/X.

In addition to his impressive victory against Topuria, Destaque has wins against some of the best names in the history of the division. He knocked out Dustin Poirier , Donald Cerrone , Paddy Pimblett , and Tony Ferguson . Furthermore, he also had historic fights with Khabib Nurmagomedov and Eddie Alvarez. Before shining in the UFC, he was the lightweight champion of the World Series of Fighting (up to 70,3 kg), now the PFL.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.