Speaking from New York City, Justin Gaethje stated definitively that his upcoming fight must be against the reigning champion. The former “BMF” and interim UFC lightweight titleholder provided insights into the current landscape of the 155-pound division and his future plans during an appearance at the 2025 Fanatics Fest. He revealed his intention to be cageside in Las Vegas this Saturday for the highly anticipated UFC 317 lightweight title bout featuring Charles Oliveira squaring off against Ilia Topuria, explicitly calling for a championship opportunity against whoever emerges victorious from that contest.