According to his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, top lightweight contender Justin Gaethje is reportedly considering walking away from mixed martial arts if he doesn`t secure the next championship opportunity.
Gaethje recently bounced back with a unanimous decision win over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313. This victory came after he stepped in on short notice following an opponent injury. However, despite his willingness to take challenges, “The Highlight” was not granted the shot at the vacant lightweight belt that became available when Islam Makhachev stepped aside.
Instead, Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria are set to compete for the title at UFC 317, a development that has left Gaethje feeling overlooked and undervalued, Abdelaziz stated in a recent interview.
“Justin Gaethje fights the winner,” Abdelaziz asserted, outlining their demand. “He`s won three of his last four, he saved the UFC two times. They needed him, and he`s there. The guy did so much for the sport. If anyone said he doesn’t deserve it—he said, ‘If I’m not going to fight for the title, I’m just going to hang up my gloves.’”
Recognized as one of the most consistently thrilling fighters in UFC history since his debut in 2017, Gaethje boasts a remarkable record of 14 post-fight bonuses in 14 octagon appearances. He has also been involved in an incredible four Fight of the Year contenders, including his recent loss to Max Holloway in a memorable clash for the symbolic “BMF” title at UFC 300. Despite this legacy of excitement, the Holloway defeat currently places him on the outside looking in regarding the UFC 317 title picture.
Abdelaziz conveyed Gaethje`s strong feelings on the matter. “He’s a very principled guy,” the manager noted. “He told me this yesterday… `I’m not going to get a title shot. I feel disrespected. I love being a UFC fighter, I love the UFC, but I feel the UFC has to love me back.’ And he doesn’t feel the love right now.”
While acknowledging the current frustration, Abdelaziz expressed optimism about the situation resolving favorably. “But listen, at the end of the day, I think, this guy, they love him. I think they will give him what he wanted. But at the end of the day, we have to see what happens first between Charles and Ilia.”
UFC 317 is scheduled to take place on June 28th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
