Justin Gaethje is reportedly considering walking away from mixed martial arts competition.
According to his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, this potential decision stems from Gaethje being passed over for the vacant UFC lightweight championship bout at UFC 317. Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria are set to compete for the title instead. Gaethje recently secured a unanimous decision victory over Rafael Fiziev in March and had previously agreed to a short-notice fight against Fiziev after his originally scheduled opponent, Dan Hooker, withdrew due to injury. Despite stepping up for the promotion, “The Highlight” was not selected for the title opportunity, leading to his frustration.
Speaking to Submission Radio, Abdelaziz conveyed Gaethje`s position: “Justin Gaethje fights the winner.” He emphasized Gaethje`s recent performance, noting he has won three of his last four fights and has supported the UFC by taking needed bouts. Abdelaziz quoted Gaethje directly regarding his future plans: “If I’m not going to fight for the title, I’m just going to hang up my gloves.”
Renowned as one of MMA`s most consistently exciting fighters, Gaethje has been a staple of high-action bouts since joining the UFC in 2017. He boasts an impressive record of 14 post-fight bonuses in 14 UFC appearances and has been involved in four recognized Fight of the Year contests, including his recent loss to Max Holloway for the ceremonial “BMF” title at UFC 300 in a fight that many considered one of the best ever. However, this recent defeat appears to have complicated his immediate path to the lightweight title shot for UFC 317.
Abdelaziz described Gaethje as a “very principled guy” who feels strongly about this situation. He relayed Gaethje`s sentiment: “I feel disrespected. I love being a UFC fighter, I love the UFC, but I feel the UFC has to love me back.” Gaethje currently feels this reciprocal love is missing.
Despite Gaethje`s current feeling of being undervalued, Abdelaziz remains optimistic. He believes the UFC recognizes Gaethje`s popularity and importance and will ultimately give him the title shot he desires, but acknowledges that the outcome of the Oliveira vs. Topuria fight will determine the next steps.
UFC 317 is scheduled to take place on June 28th in Las Vegas.
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Marcus Blakely