Justin Gaethje has openly expressed his frustration after being overlooked for the vacant UFC Lightweight Title shot scheduled at UFC 317. While Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira prepare to face off for the championship following Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight, Gaethje remains sidelined, fueling his anger over the snub.
The #3 ranked lightweight contender believes he has earned his place to fight for the 155-pound belt and feels he has been denied a deserved chance to claim UFC gold. His ongoing dissatisfaction highlights the tension within the division and his unwillingness to accept another non-title bout without substantial compensation.
Gaethje’s Stance on Future Fights and Championship Aspirations
Despite his impressive recent performances, including a win over Rafael Fiziev, Gaethje insists he will no longer participate in fights merely for enjoyment or to maintain activity. Instead, he demands either high-paying bouts or immediate championship opportunities, emphasizing that the UFC owes him a title shot after his recent record.
At 36 years old, Gaethje is prepared to take on any challenger only if the financial terms reflect the risk involved, signaling a tougher approach to his career decisions. He has indicated that he is vulnerable to retirement after one more severe knockout but remains committed to pursuing the lightweight crown above all else.
Gaethje Declares He Won’t Fight Without Significant Financial Incentives
With Islam Makhachev now competing at welterweight, the UFC lightweight division has opened up considerably, yet Gaethje is clear about his conditions moving forward. Speaking on the Makeshift Project Podcast, he declared:
“I’m not gonna fight for fun anymore,”
Gaethje said.
He added that the organization owes him a title fight, referencing his recent 3-1 performance and his willingness to take on tough opponents such as Max Holloway at UFC 300, a fight he viewed as an exhibition detached from rankings and meaningful progression.
“I’m not going fight any of these motherf****rs for fun, unless they pay me so much more money,”
Gaethje continued.
He further clarified his approach, saying if he accepts a risky fight and loses, he wants to be financially secure, and if he wins, his next bout should be for the belt. Gaethje summarized his position, stating:
“I’m done doing s**t here. And I love fighting for this s**t. I’d never wanna fight somewhere else [than the UFC]. But I’m not gonna just throw my legacy away for for anybody,”
the lightweight contender concluded.
Potential Opponents for Gaethje Amid Title Fight Delay
After his thrilling rematch victory against Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, Gaethje had hoped to secure a title shot next, but events did not unfold in his favor. With the Topuria vs Oliveira bout set to decide the new lightweight champion, Gaethje now faces the prospect of fighting another contender before gaining another title opportunity.
Several names have been discussed as possible challengers for Gaethje’s upcoming fight, including Arman Tsarukyan, who is currently ranked #1 in the lightweight division. A rematch with Dan Hooker, once recovered from injury, has also been mentioned as a potential matchup.
In addition, Paddy Pimblett, known as “The Baddy,” has emerged as a likely opponent. Pimblett recently defeated Michael Chandler at UFC 314 and is eager to break into the top five. A clash between Gaethje and Pimblett would bring exciting implications for the division and could potentially co-headline UFC 319.
What’s Next for Gaethje After a Possible Pimblett Fight?
If Justin Gaethje defeats Paddy Pimblett, it would cement his claim as the rightful challenger to the winner of the Topuria versus Oliveira title fight. This progression appears to be the logical next step for Gaethje’s quest to finally secure the UFC Lightweight Championship.
As the lightweight landscape continues to evolve with Islam Makhachev’s departure to welterweight and fresh contenders rising, the outcome of Gaethje’s future bouts will likely shape the division’s championship picture. Meanwhile, Gaethje’s insistence on being compensated fairly for fights and his demand for a title shot make his situation one to watch closely within the UFC’s lightweight rankings.