Justin Gaethje Names Conor McGregor as His Next UFC Target
New UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje is already thinking about his first title defense after defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC 250. Although Gaethje is still recovering from an injury, he has already made it clear who he would like to face next.
Gaethje has named Conor McGregor as his preferred opponent. In an interview with Paramount Plus, the new champion said he would rather fight McGregor than face former opponents Max Holloway or Charles Oliveira again.
Gaethje has already fought both Holloway and Oliveira in the past and lost to both fighters. Because of this, another fight against either opponent would be a rematch. Gaethje believes a fight with McGregor would be more exciting and would give him a new challenge as champion.
Gaethje also explained his thinking behind the choice. He pointed out that Topuria has already defeated both Holloway and Oliveira. This makes Gaethje believe that he could have an opportunity to change the situation if he faces the other fighters again.
McGregor remains one of the biggest names in UFC history. The 38-year-old Irish fighter recently returned to the Octagon after being away from competition for five years. However, his comeback did not go as planned.
His fight against Holloway ended after only 69 seconds when McGregor suffered a leg injury. The early stoppage prevented him from showing what he could do after his long break from the sport.
McGregor has also struggled to find consistent success in recent years. His last victory came in 2020, when he defeated Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. Since then, injuries and losses have kept him away from regular competition.
For Gaethje, becoming champion brings a new level of pressure. He now has to defend the belt against the best fighters in the lightweight division. While he has expressed interest in fighting McGregor, he understands that the UFC will ultimately decide who receives the next title opportunity.
Gaethje has also mentioned Arman Tsarukyan as another fighter who could become an important part of the lightweight title picture. Tsarukyan was originally expected to face Oliveira, but changes to the UFC schedule have altered those plans.
The results of upcoming fights could play a major role in deciding Gaethje’s next opponent. If another lightweight contender produces an impressive victory, that fighter could quickly become the leading candidate for a title shot.
However, fans will have to wait before seeing Gaethje return to the Octagon. The champion suffered a hand injury during his title victory, and his recovery is expected to keep him out of action until 2027.
This gives Gaethje plenty of time to recover and prepare for the biggest challenge of his career. Whether that challenge comes from McGregor, Tsarukyan, Holloway, Oliveira, or another top contender remains uncertain.
For now, Gaethje can enjoy his new status as UFC lightweight champion. But with several dangerous contenders waiting for an opportunity, his first title defense is already becoming one of the most talked-about fights in the division.