Justin Gaethje admits it's highly unlikely he fights again this year when providing return update

Live updates

1. 14d ago

   Justin Gaethje Targets Conor McGregor After Title Win

   UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has expressed a desire to fight Conor McGregor. Gaethje plans to attend the UFC 329 bout between McGregor and Max Holloway. He has rejected calls for retirement following his victory over Ilia Topuria.

   What's confirmed:

   • Justin Gaethje is the UFC lightweight champion after defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250.
   • Gaethje stated he would "love to punch" Conor McGregor in the face.
   • Gaethje intends to attend the UFC 329 fight featuring Conor McGregor.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Rashad Evans and Jorge Masvidal believe Arman Tsarukyan should be the first title challenger.
   confidence 95%
2. 18d ago

   Justin Gaethje Eyes 2027 Return After UFC Title Win

   UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje plans to fight again after defeating Ilia Topuria. He has rejected a rematch and currently targets a return in 2027. This timeline makes a 2026 appearance unlikely.

   What's confirmed:

   • Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 to become the undisputed lightweight champion.
   • Gaethje plans to fight again in the future.
   • Gaethje told Joe Rogan he eyes a 2027 return.
   • Gaethje shut down a rematch with Topuria.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Some voices suggest Gaethje should retire while at the peak of his powers.
   confidence 100%
3. 21d ago

   Justin Gaethje unlikely to return to Octagon in 2026

   UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje says there is a tiny chance he fights again this year. He recently defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC White House on June 14 to win the title. Gaethje intends to fight again in the future and has discussed potential opponents with Joe Rogan.

   What's confirmed:

   • Justin Gaethje is the UFC lightweight champion.
   • Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria on June 14 at UFC White House.
   • The victory gave Ilia Topuria his first professional loss.
   • Gaethje says there is a tiny chance he fights again in 2026.
   • Gaethje plans to fight again in the future.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Gaethje is unsure if Ilia Topuria will be the same after his first career loss.
   • Gaethje described the feeling of becoming champion as absolutely insane.
   confidence 100%
4. 23d ago

   Justin Gaethje unlikely to fight again in 2026 after winning title

   UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje says there is virtually no chance he returns to the Octagon in 2026. Gaethje cited the physical toll of two fights this year as the reason for his absence. He is currently under a 180-day medical suspension.

   What's confirmed:

   • Justin Gaethje is the new UFC lightweight champion after defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250.
   • Gaethje says it is highly unlikely he will fight again in 2026.
   • Gaethje is under a 180-day medical suspension.
   • Gaethje has a record of 28-5.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Speculation regarding Gaethje's retirement is increasing.
   confidence 95%
5. 24d ago

   Justin Gaethje Unlikely to Fight Again in 2026 After Title Win

   New UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje says it is highly unlikely he will fight again this year. He is currently under a 180-day medical suspension following his victory over Ilia Topuria. Gaethje described the experience of winning the belt as "absolutely insane."

   What's confirmed:

   • Justin Gaethje is the new UFC lightweight champion after defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250.
   • Gaethje received a 180-day medical suspension following his TKO win over Topuria.
   • Gaethje stated it is highly unlikely he will fight again in 2026.
   • The fight took place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, in Washington, D.C.

   Still unconfirmed:

   • Another brutal knockout could force Gaethje into retirement.
   • Arman Tsarukyan has urged Gaethje to avoid retirement.
   confidence 100%