Justin Gaethje Targets Early 2027 UFC Return After 4th-Round TKO Win at Freedom 250
Updated
Updated · Forbes · Jun 20
Justin Gaethje Targets Early 2027 UFC Return After 4th-Round TKO Win at Freedom 250
3 articles · Updated · Forbes · Jun 20
Summary
Early 2027 is Justin Gaethje’s target for his next UFC fight, with the new lightweight champion saying on Joe Rogan’s podcast that he is not retiring after UFC Freedom 250.
The 155-pound titleholder said nothing in him feels finished, but he has effectively ruled out 2026 after fighting twice this year and taking heavy damage.
A medical suspension tied to his wrist and knee, plus Gaethje’s request not to return before March, points to a first-quarter 2027 title defense and months of inactivity for the belt.
Ilia Topuria is unlikely to get an immediate rematch after Gaethje rejected it, even though Topuria left their June 14 White House main event with an orbital fracture and temporary vision loss in both eyes.
No next opponent is set, leaving Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira and the July 11 winner of Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway among the main possibilities.