After nearly two decades in the world of mixed martial arts, Justin Gaethje has reached a significant milestone in his career with his recent victory in June that crowned him the UFC lightweight champion. As he contemplates the final stages of his fighting journey, Gaethje has identified Conor McGregor as the ideal opponent for a legacy fight.
Since joining the UFC in 2017, Gaethje, known as 'The Highlight,' has captivated fans with his explosive fighting style and remarkable resilience. His impressive record includes victories over top-tier fighters such as Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier, and Ilia Topuria. Gaethje's approach inside the octagon is characterized by a willingness to engage in fierce exchanges, often likened to car crashes, which has endeared him to fans and made him a standout figure in the sport.
At 37 years old, Gaethje is aware that his time in the sport is limited. However, before he bids farewell to his illustrious career, he aims to achieve one more significant accomplishment. As the reigning UFC lightweight champion, Gaethje is eager to return to competition and defend his title after enjoying a brief hiatus.
“[My time off has] been really nice. Lots of traveling. Lots of traveling and lots of good food,” Gaethje remarked about his break from fighting. He noted that the sacrifices he made to compete earlier in the year allowed him to reconnect with family and enjoy personal time, including upcoming trips to Arizona.
Transitioning from challenger to champion has presented Gaethje with a new mindset. “It’s such a weird place to be in, you know. There’s always been a champion. I always had somebody to chase. So, now being the champion, it’s like I just have to retain and hold on to what I have,” he explained. Gaethje recognizes that the best fighters in the world are now targeting him, and he is prepared for the challenges ahead. He anticipates that upcoming bouts will help determine his next opponent.
Earlier this year, Gaethje was focused on avenging his previous losses to notable fighters Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira. However, his perspective has shifted, and he now prioritizes a fight that could define his legacy. “If I could pick anybody that I fought in my career before, who would I fight again? Damn, there’s really no one,” he stated. With Topuria's recent victory over both Holloway and Oliveira, Gaethje feels justified in moving on from those rematches.
Ultimately, Gaethje has set his sights on a showdown with Conor McGregor, declaring, “So, I guess McGregor. Yeah. It’d be fun to shut him up.” This potential matchup would not only serve as a thrilling contest for fans but also as a significant chapter in Gaethje's career as he seeks to solidify his legacy in the sport.
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