Justin Gaethje Reveals Weight Change After Khabib Nurmagomedov Fight

Justin Gaethje has just become the champion. Following an already cherished career, UFC gold came in as the cherry on top. However, such a feat might not have been possible had Gaethje not changed his approach to his weight. Following his fight with Khabib Nurmagomedov, ‘The Highlight’ decided that it was time for a transformation. 

How Khabib Nurmagomedov Inspired Justin Gaethje to Gain Weight

When Gaethje initially came into the UFC, he walked around with 70.3 kg body weight. After fighting the likes of Charles Oliveira and Nurmagomedov, the current lightweight champion realized that he needed to up the ante if he wanted to achieve success in the UFC. 

Reflecting on his journey to change his physical appearance, Gaethje told Demetrious Johnson, “In my last two fights, I weighed about 81.6 kg or more. That was my target too. After facing Khabib and Oliveira, I said to myself: “Makhachev is one hell of a sturdy guy. These guys bulk up to 81-82 kilos.”

Surely, such a vision definitely helped him. Becoming one of the most successful fighters in the promotion, Gaethje is now also a champion. However, following his war against Ilia Topuria, the lightweight champion has decided to take the year off. 

Justin Gaethje Won't Fight in 2026

Gaethje might not have looked bruised and battered from his championship fight against Topuria. But he surely incurred some significant damage to his body. After all, we all know how vicious a striker ‘El Matador’ is. Thus, after helping himself recover fully, Gaethje announced that he will not be coming back to the octagon in 2026. 

“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 said. 

Ilia Topuria, on the other hand, has announced that he is ready to return to the Octagon.