Justin Gaethje Challenges Islam Makhachev For A Title Fight In June

Justin Gaethje and Islam Makhachev

Justin Gaethje is looking extremely confident after his latest victory. Gaethje, who suffered a thumping knockout in UFC 300 against Max Holloway, took a long break. However, after coming back, Gaethje made a strong statement by securing a dominant victory over Rafael Fiziev. Now, riding high on confidence, the former UFC BMF champion has challenged for the title.

Gaethje recently made a statement where he challenged the lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. Hinting at an immediate matchup, Gaethje stated that he will be ready within June.

“I’m ready to fight in June. I think Makhachev said he wants to fight in June. I’m hoping I get that call sooner rather than later… Oliveira already lost [to Islam]. Tsarukyan really f***ed it up, I don’t think they want to give it to him. I can see them giving it to Topuria. We’ll see what they do,” Gaethje opined.

Well, the prospect of Gaethje facing Makhachev does sound interesting. But it might not become a reality. This is because Ilia Topuria is most probably the most likely to get the title shot first. Having vacated his featherweight title, Topuria recently dropped an interesting revelation.

Will Ilia Topuria Get His Shot At Islam Makhachev?

Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev

Ilia Topuria’s decision to move up to the lightweight category came as a shock to many. While a lot of speculation was going on, Topuria recently cleared the air. He revealed what exactly prompted him to make such a big decision.

“The UFC promised me I’d fight for the belt. That’s why I vacated it. And they’ve always kept their promise,” said Topuria.

Thus, with Topuria standing in line, Justin Gaethje might not be getting a title shot soon. However, nothing can be taken for granted in the UFC. We will have to wait and watch.