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Justin Gaethje is 100% sure who his next opponent will be if he opts against retirement

For the past few months, everyone has been wondering who Justin Gaethje will fight next. Ilia Topuria has been campaigning for a rematch since quitting…

Bloodyelbow

Published: Thursday, 24 September 2026 at 7:32 AM

Key Things to Know

Justin Gaethje confirmed Arman Tsarukyan will be his next opponent if he opts against retirement.
Gaethje will take the remainder of the year to recover before deciding whether to defend his title.
Arman Tsarukyan recently knocked out Mauricio Ruffy in the first round at UFC 331.

The Story in 60 Seconds

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje confirmed on the FLAGRANT podcast that Arman Tsarukyan will be his next opponent if he decides to defend his title rather than retire. Gaethje stated he plans to rest and recover for the remainder of the year before making a final decision regarding his fighting career.

Tsarukyan earned the top contender spot after securing a first-round elbow knockout against Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331. While waiting on Gaethje's decision, Tsarukyan is scheduled to participate in wrestling bouts, including a match against Dillon Danis on October 23 in Las Vegas.

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Justin Gaethje is 100% sure who his next opponent will be if he opts against retirement

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