Justin Gaethje is considering retiring from MMA after feeling overlooked for a title shot, despite his contributions and success in the UFC.
Justin Gaethje might be calling it quits from MMA. In March, he returned to victory with a unanimous decision over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313. Originally, he was set to face Dan Hooker, but an injury led to a last-minute change.
Despite stepping up, Gaethje wasn’t rewarded. When Islam Makhachev vacated his lightweight title, Gaethje was overlooked for the vacant fight. Instead, Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria will battle for the belt at UFC 317. Gaethje feels slighted, according to his manager, Ali Abdelaziz.
“Justin fights the winner,” Abdelaziz told Submission Radio. “He’s won three of his last four and saved the UFC twice. If he doesn’t get the title shot, he’s hanging up his gloves.”
Gaethje, known for his thrilling fights, joined the UFC in 2017. With 14 fights, he’s snagged 14 post-fight bonuses and been part of four Fight of the Year winners. Yet, his loss to Max Holloway for the "BMF" title at UFC 300 has left him sidelined for UFC 317.
“He’s principled,” Abdelaziz said. “He feels disrespected. Loves being a UFC fighter, but he wants the UFC to show love back.”
“But hey, they love him,” Abdelaziz added. “I think they’ll give him what he wants. We just need to see what happens between Charles and Ilia first.”
UFC 317 is set for June 28 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.