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“I am hoping it’s Makhachev�?- Justin Gaethje expresses his desire for a lightweight title bout as he reveals his next potential opponent

“I am hoping it’s Makhachev�?- Justin Gaethje expresses his desire for a lightweight title bout as he reveals his next potential opponent

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 10, 2025, 16:25 IST

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Justin Gaethje wants to fight Islam Makhachev in June 2025. Gaethje is ready after his win at UFC 313. He feels he deserves the title shot. Gaethje is 4-1 in his last five fights. He sees himself as the best option for Makhachev. Ilia Topuria also wants a shot at Makhachev.

“I am hoping it’s Makhachev�?- Justin Gaethje expresses his desire for a lightweight title bout as he reveals his next potential opponent

Justin Gaethje. Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

With an MMA stat of 26-5-0, Justin Gaethje returned to the Octagon for his bout against Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313. After getting defeated by Max Holloway at UFC 300, this was a much-needed win for The Highlight to maintain his stance for the title run. Post the UFC 313 bout, there was no announcement regarding Gaethje’s next fight until recently, when the fighter stated in an interview that he is ready to fight in June 2025 and hopes to get a shot against Islam Makhachev, the current lightweight champion.

Justin Gaethje talks about his community service as he engages with the Miami Police Department’s Youth Program.

In a recent interview with The Schmo, former interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje talks about his career, his recent win, upcoming fight possibilities and much more. The interview kicks off with Gaethje being involved in the Miami Police Department’s Youth Program, showcasing his dedication to community engagement and youth development. The fighter expressed his optimism for the upcoming UFC 314 match cards.

Justin Gaethje Calls For Islam Makhachev in June!

When asked about his opinion on the next title bout within the lightweight division, the fighter quickly responded, saying, “I’m ready to fight in June. I think Makhachev said he wants to fight in June. I’m hoping I get that call sooner rather than later.�?The Highlight reflected upon his journey until now, “Its been a crazy journey. I am not at the beginning of the journey anymore. It’s towards the end. You know I am 4-1 in my last five fights, only losing to Max Holloway.�?br/>

Gaethje went on to justify himself as the appropriate choice as Makhachev’s next opponent, “Oliveira already lost [to Islam]. Tsarukyan really f—�?it up; I don’t think they want to give it to him. I can see them giving it to Topuria. We’ll see what they do. But ultimately I will let my coaches and manager decide on whom I am going to fight. I am hoping it’s Makhachev. Outside that, I don’t know. It’s a golf course.�?br/>Ilia Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title to move up to lightweight, expecting a title bout against Makhachev. However, no such confirmation has been received as of yet as members of the MMA community believe that Topuria needs to face other lightweight contenders first and prove himself for the title bout.
Also read: "Someone’s going to pay�? UFC 314 fighter Marcio Tulio escapes robbery attempt days before fight
Up until now, the situation seems to be leaning on Gaethje’s side and might as well earn him a title bout eventually. However, official confirmations are awaited and it is only a matter of time, we get the next lightweight title bout.

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TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

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