Justin Gaethje’s UFC 313 Victory and Future Plans
Justin Gaethje returned to the win column at UFC 313, reaffirming his status as a top contender in the lightweight division. His dominant performance against Rafael Fiziev not only earned him a significant victory but also secured another Fight of the Night bonus, further highlighting his ability to deliver thrilling matches. However, despite the resounding success, Gaethje is clear about one thing: he has no interest in a trilogy bout with his former adversary, Dustin Poirier. The two lightweight stars have clashed twice, with Poirier securing a spectacular fourth-round knockout in April 2018 and Gaethje avenging the loss with a highlight-reel head kick at UFC 291 in 2023.
Gaethje’s Stance on a Potential Trilogy Bout
In the post-fight press conference, Gaethje expressed his reasons for declining a third matchup with Poirier. "No, I’ve stated many times that I don’t think either one of our families deserve that. We’re 1-1. I’m OK with it. If he’s OK with it, then no." Gaethje’s sentiment is deeply personal, reflecting a respect for the toll that fighting at such a high level can take on both the fighters and their families. He believes that their families have seen enough of the intense battles between the two and that staying at 1-1 is a fair and acceptable conclusion to their rivalry. Gaethje further elaborated, "I think we’re contenders if we beat other people. If I beat him, I don’t think either one of us would be considered a contender." This stance underscores his belief that continuing to face new opponents and proving themselves in different match-ups is more valuable than revisiting old battles.
Poirier’s Future in the UFC
When asked about who Poirier should face in a potential retirement bout, Gaethje suggested a rematch with the current lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. "I don’t know, it’s a good question. Makhachev." This recommendation is not just a casual suggestion; it is a nod to the current landscape of the lightweight division. Poirier, despite losing to Gaethje in their most recent encounter, has shown remarkable resilience and continues to be a formidable presence in the division. After their second fight, Poirier rebounded with a win over Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299, which set the stage for his matchup with Makhachev at UFC 302. Although Makhachev retained the title with a fifth-round submission, Poirier’s performance was commendable and demonstrated his continued relevance in the lightweight ranks.
Gaethje’s Path to the Championship
Despite missing out on a third title shot when he was on the wrong end of a buzzer-beating knockout by Max Holloway at UFC 300, Gaethje remains determined to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming the UFC lightweight champion. "I want to fight for the belt, obviously. It’s a much different matchup than I just had. They tried to give me a donut. I took a bite, but I’ve got to get back to running if I’m going to fight Makhachev." This analogy speaks to the intense preparation and physical conditioning required for a championship bout. Gaethje understands the high stakes and the need to be at his absolute best, especially if he is to face Makhachev, a champion known for his exceptional grappling skills and overall comprehensive game.
Gaethje’s Impact on the Lightweight Division
Gaethje’s recent victory and his clear focus on the championship highlight his enduring impact on the lightweight division. His win over Fiziev, coupled with the Fight of the Night bonus, solidifies his position as a top contender and a fan favorite. Gaethje’s fighting style, characterized by his aggressive offense and heart-pounding finishes, continues to captivate audiences and critics alike. His ability to bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive outlook on his career is a testament to his resilience and determination. Gaethje’s journey in the UFC has been marked by intense battles and significant milestones, and his continued pursuit of the championship demonstrates his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Looking Forward
As Gaethje looks to his next challenge, he remains focused on his end goal: the UFC lightweight championship. His recent victory and the praise he has received only serve to motivate him further. Gaethje’s approach to his career is both pragmatic and passionate, acknowledging the importance of family and personal well-being while also striving to achieve greatness in his sport. Whether it’s a championship bout against Makhachev or another high-profile matchup, Gaethje is ready to face whatever the UFC has in store for him. His dedication and competitiveness make him a formidable force in the lightweight division, and his fans are eagerly awaiting his next chapter in the octagon.
