‘My Brain Is the Concern’: Justin Gaethje Opens Up on Retirement and Taking More Damage
The new UFC lightweight champion reveals that mental risk has also been a part of his fighting career.
Justin Gaethje beat one of the most feared contenders, Ilia Topuria, to win his first undisputed UFC title. Gaethje, an underdog in the fight, battered the then-undefeated champion for the whole fight, forcing the latter’s corner to quit in the fourth round.
At 37, Gaethje shocked the world by delivering a historic performance at UFC Freedom 250 in the White House in June. However, in the process, the new champion injured his right knee and right wrist, resulting in an 180-day medical suspension. Considering his health, fans are concerned about his return. Gaethje has answered their questions.
Justin Gaethje Says ‘My body is Pretty Good’
In one of his interviews, ‘The Highlight’ stated that, given his recovery, he would not return until early 2027. However, he also admitted that he is unsure about the return yet.
On One Night with Steiny, Gaethje said that his comments on podcasts and interviews are often made casually. But he believes they are framed differently sometimes by the media and fans.
In the same vein, he answered the retirement questions. Steiny asked, “Is it getting to the point where you would consider retiring because taking more damage could actually affect you long-term?”
Gaethje replied, “That’s always been a risk. That’s been a risk every single fight. My knee has never been the concern. My elbows... It’s only your brain that you’re talking about. That’s always been a concern, right?”
Gaethje has been in the professional fighting business for over 15 years now. Despite the years of wear and tear, the champion believes he can still compete with the best.
“I just beat what everybody considered the best guy in the world. So I think my body is doing pretty good. I just got bruises. Bone bruises last a long time,” Gaethje said.
Although Gaethje wasn’t direct about his retirement, it appears like he wants to compete again.
Will the Ilia Topuria Rematch Happen?
No, Justin Gaethje has openly talked about not fighting against Ilia Topuria next. He believes Arman Tsarukyan has cemented himself as the next challenger.
Tsarukyan is on a six-fight win streak. Most recently, he knocked out a strong striker, Mauricio Ruffy, at UFC 331 in the first round, making his stance clear.
Following Tsarukyan’s win. Dana White also acknowledged the Armenian’s win streak and his increasing global popularity. Thus, Tsarukyan could be next for the title if everything goes as planned.
