Justin Gaethje has Bad News for Fans as He Lays Down 2026 Plans

Justin Gaethje made headlines not very long ago. After all, dominating someone like Ilia Topuria completely is commendable. Following his win, the one question that has always popped up is when the new champion will defend his UFC gold next. Answering the question, Gaethje recently laid down his 2026 plans. It wasn't what the fans were expecting to hear. 

Justin Gaethje Won't Fight in 2026

The fight against Topuria surely had ‘The Highlight’ ending on a winning note. Gaethje also did not suffer any visible cuts from the fight. However, he did incur some serious injuries that needed to be dealt with ASAP. Thus, concluding his UFC journey for the year, the lightweight champion stated that he will not come back for the rest of 2026. 

Gaethje said, “I fought twice this year. I have a deep bone bruise in my knee. I can't punch with my hands still. So, I really need to recover. So, I know for a fact I will not be fighting again this year.”

The 37-year-old fighter also pointed out that during his fighting career, he has always been taught to have a ‘ready-anytime’ mindset. However, the fighter also stressed that he needed to treat UFC as a business and strategize accordingly for longevity and his physical well-being. 

Meanwhile, speaking about his previous bout, the champion felt that Ilia Topuria came underprepared.

Justin Gaethje Blasts Ilia Topuria for Lack of Preparation

When Topuria came to fight Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250, he was one of the hot favorites to win the bout. Surprisingly, things looked completely different once the fight started. With Gaethje putting on a show, Topuria was declared medically unfit to continue after the fourth round. 

Speaking with Demetrious Johnson about their face-off, ‘The Highlight’ said, “I'm referring to the 12 weeks before the fight; those emotional mistakes in preparation. So he wasn't prepared for what happened that night. And it's his fault. Because he didn't think it was possible for someone to be there with him for that long, or whatever it was. He forgot who he was and how dangerous this game is." 

Interestingly, Ilia Topuria has recently confirmed that he is ready to return.