Justin Gaethje is determined to compete on the UFC White House card as the undisputed lightweight champion, with Ilia Topuria standing in his way. Gaethje recently expressed confidence that he is better positioned than Arman Tsarukyan to secure the upcoming title shot against Topuria.
Last month, Gaethje voiced frustration over being overlooked for a title opportunity after Islam Makhachev vacated the lightweight championship, even threatening retirement if denied a chance at UFC gold. Meanwhile, Topuria claimed the 155-pound belt by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317.
During a recent question-and-answer session, Gaethje reaffirmed his goal to fight Topuria for the lightweight title and mentioned his hope that this matchup could take place at Madison Square Garden, New York City, potentially on the White House lawn card. He stated:
“That’s the fight that I want. Obviously, I’m biased. I’m going to fight for what I feel like I deserve… We’re all biased toward ourselves. It’s me or Arman. I believe somebody has to fight him this year, and I think I’m in a better spot than Arman. I hope it’s at MSG, New York City. I get to fight him, and I get to defend it on the White House lawn.”
—Justin Gaethje, UFC Lightweight Contender
Ilia Topuria Questions Fan Interest in Fight Against Gaethje
Ilia Topuria recently weighed in on the prospect of facing Justin Gaethje, encouraging rising fighters to make their mark in the lightweight division. Though open to a future encounter with ‘The Highlight,’ Topuria expressed doubts about whether their fight would excite fans.
In an interview with ESPN MMA, Topuria emphasized the need for fresh talent and new faces eager to seize their moments, suggesting longtime fighters like Gaethje and Charles Oliveira may no longer generate the enthusiasm the division needs. He commented:
“I don’t think we have anyone else in the division. Fighting against Justin Gaethje, I don’t think that’s going to be something exciting for the fans. We need new blood in the division. We need new faces, new guys that come hungrier than the guys that we are used to seeing in the past, like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, or the other guys. I want to bring new faces to the game.”
—Ilia Topuria, UFC Lightweight Champion
Rising Stakes in the UFC Lightweight Division
The clash between Gaethje and Topuria highlights the tension brewing in the UFC lightweight ranks, where emerging talent vies for dominance over established contenders. With the lightweight title recently changing hands and Gaethje pushing hard for recognition, the division faces a pivotal moment shaping its future narrative.
The potential UFC White House card adds a historic backdrop for the championship showdown, possibly elevating the spotlight on both fighters. Gaethje’s anxiety over his career trajectory and Topuria’s call for renewal in the division create a charged atmosphere heading into what could be a defining fight for the lightweight belt.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How is Justin Gaethje so powerful?
A. He trains with one of the top coaches in MMA, and together, they create excellent game plans. Gaethje is physically strong and can absorb punches while continuing to fight, unlike many others. However, it’s Gaethje’s athletic ability that truly sets him apart.
Q. Was Justin Gaethje undefeated?
A. While competing in regional events in Colorado and Arizona, Gaethje won all 7 of his professional matches, achieving 6 victories by stoppage.