Justin Gaethje has exciting plans for his return to the UFC, and he's already considering potential opponents to step in if Ilia Topuria remains unavailable.
Gaethje is driven by a desire to unify the lightweight division, but he's also open to revisiting past rivalries if the situation calls for it. The former BMF champion recently secured a victory against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, where he claimed the interim title in the 155-pound weight class. Meanwhile, Topuria, who currently holds the title, is taking a break from fighting due to personal matters, leaving the division in a bit of uncertainty.
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Gaethje, now representing Duelbits, mentioned to Bloody Elbow that if Topuria is unable to compete this summer, he has two former foes in mind who could provide him with an opportunity to avenge his previous losses.
- IN-DEPTH: Just hours before his match against Paddy Pimblett, Gaethje sought advice using ChatGPT (check out the full story here [link]).
As an interim champion, Gaethje isn't just another fighter on the roster; he’s got his sights set on making an impactful appearance on the UFC White House card. He aims to capitalize on his current status to negotiate high-profile fights. While Topuria has suggested a return between April and June, the complexities of his situation extend beyond the octagon and create an opening for Gaethje in the meantime.
In a conversation with Bloody Elbow via Duelbits, Gaethje expressed his eagerness, stating: "Once everything clears up and the UFC gives the go-ahead, I'm ready to fight. More than anything, though, I have my heart set on that White House event. That’s the matchup I’m targeting. Competing for a title in such a historic setting would be monumental. If Topuria is cleared to fight, that’s who I want to face."
Looking ahead, Gaethje is also keeping an eye on the upcoming title defense featuring Max Holloway against Charles Oliveira at UFC 326 next month. This fight is set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena, and it's significant for Gaethje as he previously lost the BMF title to Holloway in one of the sport’s most memorable bouts at UFC 300, while Oliveira managed to defeat him in their title clash despite missing weight.
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Gaethje remains open to rematches with both Holloway and Oliveira, stating: "If Topuria isn’t able to fight, then the winner of the Max vs. Charles matchup would be a logical choice for me. That’s the event I’m eager to participate in. I’m not pursuing anyone else specifically, but if the opportunity arises on that prestigious platform, I’ll be prepared.
I would genuinely relish the chance to avenge my loss to Holloway. He’s a legend in this sport whom I greatly respect, and if fate brings us together again, I wouldn’t hesitate to take that fight. While Topuria is still my primary focus, a rematch with Max is certainly something I would embrace."
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