Justin Gaethje`s strong stance on fighting only Ilia Topuria for the title appears to be gaining support, potentially leading to the opportunity the former Interim Lightweight and BMF champion desires.
A consistent presence in the lightweight top 5 for nearly a decade, Gaethje is currently ranked #3, holding three victories in his last four bouts. He expressed significant disappointment when he was passed over for a title shot against Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, with Charles Oliveira getting the nod instead.
Gaethje has publicly asserted that the UFC owes him a title challenge and has even hinted at retirement if he isn`t granted a fight against the champion, Topuria. UFC CEO Dana White responded to this ultimatum, calling it `whacky` and suggesting Gaethje should retire if that`s his inclination.
While Gaethje is a prominent contender, he is not the only fighter vying for Topuria`s first title defense. Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett are also considered in the title mix. Pimblett had a notable face-off with Topuria following a recent event, and Tsarukyan strengthened his claim by serving as the official backup fighter for the UFC 317 headliner.
Fellow Lightweight Dan Hooker Weighs In
Despite Liverpool`s Paddy Pimblett being a massive star, particularly in the UK, another figure in the lightweight division, #7 ranked Dan Hooker, has voiced his opinion that a fight between Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria makes more financial sense for the promotion.
Speaking on Submission Radio, Hooker suggested that while the UFC might ideally want to book Gaethje versus Paddy Pimblett, Gaethje`s apparent unwillingness to take that fight leaves Topuria as the primary option. Hooker argued that North America is the key market for pay-per-view sales, and while Pimblett has a large online presence, his ability to `move the needle` for PPV buys in North America is unproven compared to Gaethje.
“For sure, Justin Gaethje moves the needle in North America,” Hooker stated, concluding that Gaethje is likely the fighter who would generate the most revenue for the UFC as a champion, making his case for the next title shot against Topuria compelling from a business standpoint.
Gaethje Cites Consistency and Circumstance
Gaethje`s push for a championship bout follows the cancellation of his scheduled five-round fight against Dan Hooker at UFC 313 earlier this year. That potential title eliminator was called off due to Hooker`s withdrawal stemming from a broken hand, a situation outside of Gaethje`s control.
Gaethje remained on the UFC 313 card and defeated short-notice replacement Rafael Fiziev by decision, marking his second win over the top contender. He has been waiting for a title opportunity ever since.
Discussing his position, Gaethje emphasized his consistency as his primary argument for being the next challenger. He stated on The Makeshift Podcast that his reliable performance for the company should earn him a championship fight, comparing it to an employee receiving a bonus or recognition. While expressing his desire to stay with the UFC and not fight elsewhere, he stressed the importance of his legacy and not sacrificing it. He highlighted his recent record of 3-1 as superior to Charles Oliveira`s 2-2 and pointed out that the cancellation of the fight with Hooker was not his fault.
Gaethje remains hopeful that the UFC will soon announce his next fight, anticipating it will be his third chance at the undisputed lightweight title.
Rupert Hartwell