Justin Gaethje is expecting to headline at the White House, but the UFC welterweight king says not so fast.
‘The Highlight’ seemingly secured his third opportunity at the undisputed lightweight title with his latest performance at UFC 324 in January.
In the first main event of the Paramount era, Gaethje beat Paddy Pimblett across five rounds in Las Vegas to become a two-time interim champion at 155 pounds.
In the American’s eyes, a logical unification fight with Ilia Topuria awaits him. But Gaethje may not be the only option when the Spanish star returns from a hiatus.
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Who do you want Justin Gaethje to fight next?
Islam Makhachev tells UFC he is ‘ready’ to fight Ilia Topuria at the White House
Before Topuria announced a break from the UFC to deal with personal issues away from the Octagon, there was talk of him being the first to challenge welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
‘El Matador’ has been vocal about his desire to become the first three-division titleholder in the promotion’s history, and it seems Makhachev is willing to offer him that chance at the biggest event of 2026.
During a recent interview with Telegraf Sport, the Dagestani welcomed the idea of a clash with the returning Topuria on the White House lawn this June.
“I like this idea,” Makhachev said.
“If the UFC wants it, I’m ready.”
Justin Gaethje says the UFC has ‘no other option’ than to book him vs. Ilia Topuria
Makhachev’s comments could derail Gaethje’s plans if the UFC takes the Dagestani up on his offer. But the interim champ may not be too concerned given what he thinks about his return.
After his title crowning last month, ‘The Highlight’ suggested that nothing but the Topuria showdown can be next, even going as far as to say the UFC has no choice but to book it.
“Ilia Topuria on the White House (card). It has to be. No other option,” Gaethje said on The Pat McAfee Show.
“Walking out of the Oval Office, into the cage, wearing the flag. I’ve been speaking (it) into existence since I fought (Rafael) Fiziev last year. I thought it would be Topuria in January, and then I would fight and defend my belt on the White House card in June.
“Things change up, can’t control everything. Ilia takes a step back, has some personal issues. I still get to fight for an interim championship, which makes me a champion on paper, which gives me Ilia Topuria on the White House in June,” he added.
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