Outside Source
Justin Gaethje could be next in line for a lightweight title shot. | Getty/UFC
It’s far from official, but Justin Gaethje (26-5) is rumored to be Ilia Topuria’s (17-0) first lightweight title defense.
According to Alvaro Colmenro of Eurosport, the UFC is looking to kick off its Paramount broadcast partnership with Topuria’s first title defense. If it materializes, Topuria is likely to put his belt on the line against Gaethje in January in Los Angeles.
Gaethje Has Been Vocal About Receiving Next Title Shot
Topuria won the featherweight title by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski last year and defended it by handing Max Holloway his lone knockout loss. “El Matador” then moved up to lightweight and knocked out Charles Oliveira this past June to clinch the vacant title. Topuria subsequently called out Paddy Pimblett, although Arman Tsarukyan was the clear No.1 contender. Topuria even threatened to vacate the title if forced to fight “Ahalkalakets” immediately. Tsarukyan will now headline UFC Qatar against Dan Hooker in November in a publicly announced title contender fight.
Meanwhile, Gaethje has won three of his last four since a failed title bid against Charles Oliveira in 2022. “The Highlight” has been adamant about fighting for the title next, even threatening retirement if denied a gold bid.
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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