Justin Gaethje acknowledges his nearing retirement as he prepares for a pivotal fight against Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324, understanding the stakes and reflecting on his career achievements and love for the sport.
Justin Gaethje knows his time in combat sports isn’t infinite.
Next Saturday, he faces Paddy Pimblett for an interim lightweight title at UFC 324 in Las Vegas. At 37, Gaethje has crafted a legendary career, but this fight feels pivotal. A loss could push him out of the contender spotlight for good.
In a chat with TNT Sports, he was candid about retirement thoughts.
“No, but it’s not the beginning,” he remarked. “I’m 37 years old. I’d be a fool to think that we’re just getting started here. The end is near.”
Gaethje and his team got exactly what they wanted.
“I definitely got what I asked for,” he admitted. “My manager set it up, but hey, we’re emotional and petty. You don’t reach this level without taking things personally. I felt I’d earned something, so I stood up.”
Over his eight-year UFC stint, Gaethje’s racked up accolades—nine Fight of the Night awards and the “BMF” belt. He also snagged an interim title by beating Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 in May 2020.
The belt doesn’t add much significance, aside from boosting his pay. As he nears career’s end, he’s keeping it all in perspective.
“Every fight is a traumatic life experience,” Gaethje shared. “Nothing matches the highs or lows of this sport. It’s kind of ruined other parts of life, but I’m so hungry and feel most alive in there. I’ll miss it when it’s gone. I think I truly love it more than most.”