Gaethje Unsure of Fighting Future but Names His Next Fight if He Continues

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje (28-5) is considering retirement but says the division’s No.2-ranked fighter Arman Tsarukyan (24-3) would be next in line if he decides to continue.

The 37-year-old Gaethje has yet to decide whether he will return after defeating Ilia Topuria on June 14. He cited injuries and concerns about his long-term health after a career spanning 40 amateur and professional fights. “This has never been about money for me. It’s about health,” he said.

Gaethje said he has nothing left to prove and wants to keep his faculties, but acknowledged the difficulty of walking away after one of the strongest performances of his career.

Tsarukyan, meanwhile, strengthened his claim for the next title shot by knocking out Mauricio Ruffy in the first round on September 19, extending his winning streak to six. Tsarukyan has questioned whether Gaethje will accept the fight, suggesting the champion could retire or pursue a rematch with Topuria instead.

Gaethje has ruled out another fight in 2026 and has yet to set a timeline for his decision.

“I’m going to enjoy being champion the rest of the year,” Gaethje said. “I’m going to make a business decision and a life decision whenever the time comes.”