Champion Justin Gaethje ignores competition, details drama and rules out fighting in the UFC in 2026.

Justin Gaethje promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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MMA legend Justin Gaethje simply shone in the first half of 2026. In January, the American impressed against Paddy Pimblett , winning by unanimous decision, and in June, in Washington (USA), he shocked the world by knocking out the feared Ilia Topuria in the fourth round. Because of this trajectory, the newest UFC lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) is in no hurry to return to action.

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So much so that Gaethje simply ruled out putting his lightweight title on the line for the first time in the remainder of the season. It's worth noting that, as usual, the UFC lightweight division is on fire, with Charles Oliveira , Max Holloway , Paddy Pimblett , and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy all dreaming of a title shot. But, still suffering from the damage sustained in his fight against the Georgian, the champion ignored his competitors and stressed that he will only step into the octagon again when he is 100% recovered.

“I still can’t throw punches. My hands are still sore from the fight, so I’m just going to enjoy being champion for the rest of the year, since I fought twice in the first six months. I’ll put everything on paper, the pros and cons, talk to my family and everyone who loves me so they’re honest with me, and then I’ll make a decision,” the champion said in an interview with 'Sports Illustrated'.

Justin Gaethje's MMA History

Justin Gaethje , 37, is an MMA legend. The American began his career in the sport in 2011 and debuted in the UFC in 2017. With the company, 'The Highlight' became lightweight champion and previously won the interim title twice and the 'BMF' (Baddest Motherfucker) belt.

In boxing, Gaethje built a record of 28 wins, 21 by knockout, and five losses. His main victories were over Donald Cerrone , Dustin Poirier , Edson Barboza , Ilia Topuria , Michael Chandler , Paddy Pimblett , Rafael Fiziev (twice), and Tony Ferguson.

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