“Nothing Left to Prove”: Justin Gaethje’s Manager Confirms Return, Casts Doubt on Arman Tsarukyan Clash
Justin Gaethje's manager has added a new chapter to the lightweight title saga, and it's not something Arman Tsarukyan would appreciate.
Arman Tsarukyan has come painfully close to title shots in the past, yet either injuries derailed them or the opportunity went to another fighter. This time, however, his emphatic KO win against Mauricio Ruffy in UFC 331 has made his case undeniable. That makes Ali Abdelaziz's recent comments all the more frustrating.
Ali Abdelaziz Details Gaethje's Next Move
In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Justin Gaethje's long-time manager has cleared up growing speculation about the UFC star's next move. And while retirement appears to be off the table, the 'Highlight's next outing won't necessarily have his belt on the line.
"He didn't retire. I'm sure we're going to see Justin Gaethje back in the cage, but when, who, where- honestly, I don't know," he told Submission Radio.
According to Abdelaziz, the American has already performed at the division's highest level, earning his spot at the top with a convincing victory. Although he's not ruling out his first title defense, Gaethje has no obligation.
"He’s earned it; he can do whatever he wants and whatever the UFC wants. We will figure it out. If Arman is next, so be it; if someone else is next, so be it... I believe Justin has nothing to prove anything in this division."
Abdelaziz, however, has something else on his mind.
Ali Abdelaziz Teases "Big" Next Move for Gaethje
In the same interview, the mixed martial arts manager also hinted at a "fantasy" plan for the lightweight champion, although he didn't reveal the specifics. Apparently, that idea would make many people upset. However, Abdelaziz kept the doors open for a marquee matchup.
"Justin has to do something so unique and so big," he added, before quickly pivoting back to Gaethje's agency. "Let him do whatever he wants to do, for once."
Ultimately, the decision rests entirely upon the two-time interim UFC champion. And considering the Highlight's lingering deep bone bruise injury in his knee and ongoing issues with his right wrist, his return clearly won't be in 2026. Beyond that, Gaethje is also heavily relying on his team and his family to decide his next stint.
This uncertainty surrounding Gaethje's return to the Octagon has definitely put Arman Tsarukyan in a tricky spot. After battling major setbacks to enter the title conversation, the date seems to have been pushed back further.
If Gaethje refuses to choose the conventional next route or vacate his belt, Tsarukyan might have to stay content with an interim title shot for the time being.
