What’s next for the UFC champion? Justin Gaethje’s manager revealed the plan

Justin Gaethje already has specific expectations for his next fight in the Octagon. As his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, revealed, the UFC lightweight champion is interested only in a truly big fight.

At UFC Freedom 250, Justin Gaethje pulled off a massive upset by defeating Ilia Topuria and claiming the undisputed lightweight championship. Over the following weeks, fans analyzed “The Highlight’s” spectacular performance, but a question quickly arose: what’s next for the 37-year-old American?

There is no shortage of potential contenders in the lightweight division. At the same time, Gaethje is already at a stage in his career where any upcoming fight could turn out to be his last. For years, the American has been known for his spectacular style and grueling battles in the Octagon, which is why the topic of him retiring regularly comes up.

Gaethje wants to return in 2027. He’s only interested in a big fight

His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, spoke more about the champion’s future. In an interview with MMA Junkie, he admitted that fans shouldn’t expect another fight from “The Highlight” in 2026. If everything goes according to plan, Gaethje won’t return to the cage until next year.

– In 2027, we’ll see Justin Gaethje back in the ring. He fought twice this year and deserves a break. He’s still the undisputed lightweight champion, and I think everyone else has to chase him now. But he wants a big fight. A really big one. What will it be? Who will decide? Dana White. He’s the one who will decide what the biggest matchup can be,” said Abdelaziz.

At the same time, the champion’s manager makes no secret of the fact that he would have no problem at all if Gaethje decided to call it quits right now. In his opinion, the American has achieved enough in this sport to decide for himself when the right time comes to step away from the spotlight.

“If he were to end his career today, I’d be very happy, because he’s already achieved everything. However, if he decides he wants to fight one more time, he can do so. No one’s going to tell him what to do. He’s the one in charge here. Ultimately, it just has to be a huge fight,” added the manager.

The question, then, remains: which opponent will the UFC deem attractive enough for the champion? Gaethje makes it clear that at this stage of his career, he’s no longer interested in just any fight—if he steps back into the Octagon, the stakes and his opponent’s name must be substantial enough.