Justin Gaethje’s Deep Request To Dana White: It's Time For Him To Have A Title Fight

Justin Gaethje, nicknamed The Highlight for his electrifying and aggressive fighting style, has long been one of the most exciting competitors in the UFC’s lightweight division. After a series of high-stakes fights, Gaethje believes he has done enough to earn another shot at the UFC Lightweight Championship.

Recently, he took to social media to express his frustration, pointing out that he has won three of his last four fights and only lost in what he referred to as an “exhibition” match against Max Holloway. Now, he’s calling out Dana White and demanding his place in the title picture.

But does Gaethje deserve a title shot? Let’s take a deep dive into his recent performances, career trajectory, and the lightweight division landscape to assess whether he should indeed be next in line for the gold.

Justin Gaethje’s Recent Fights: A Strong Case for Title Contention

Gaethje has been on an impressive run in the lightweight division, facing elite-level competition and proving time and again why he remains one of the most feared fighters in the sport.

Victory Over Dustin Poirier: The BMF Title Win

One of Gaethje’s most significant recent victories came at UFC 291 on July 29, 2023, when he faced Dustin Poirier for the symbolic “Baddest Motherf***er” (BMF) title.

The fight was a rematch of their legendary 2018 battle, which Poirier won via TKO in the fourth round. However, this time, Gaethje came in with a different game plan. He delivered a stunning head-kick knockout in the second round, securing not just the BMF title but also proving his ability to evolve and adapt.

His performance earned him yet another Performance of the Night bonus, and with that win, Gaethje solidified himself as one of the top lightweights in the division.

Loss to Max Holloway: A BMF Title Defense Gone Wrong

At UFC 300 on April 13, 2024, Gaethje defended his BMF belt against former featherweight champion Max Holloway in what would become one of the greatest fights in UFC history.

For five brutal rounds, both fighters engaged in a high-paced war that had the crowd on its feet. Gaethje appeared to be on the verge of victory, but in the final second of the fifth round, Holloway landed a stunning knockout punch, snatching the BMF title from Gaethje in dramatic fashion.

Despite the loss, the fight earned Fight of the Night honors, and Gaethje walked away with a $300,000 bonus.

Win Against Rafael Fiziev: Bouncing Back with a Statement Victory

Before facing Holloway, Gaethje took on rising contender Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 on March 18, 2023. Many considered Fiziev to be the future of the lightweight division, but Gaethje proved he still belonged among the best.

In a fight that showcased his striking accuracy, toughness, and elite cardio, Gaethje secured a majority decision victory over the dangerous Muay Thai specialist. The fight was an all-out war, and once again, Gaethje walked away with a Fight of the Night bonus.

Rematch with Rafael Fiziev: Another Hard-Fought Win

Most recently, at UFC 313 on March 8, 2025, Gaethje once again faced Rafael Fiziev, proving that his first victory was no fluke. This time, he dominated Fiziev even more convincingly, securing a unanimous decision victory.

This win marked his third victory in his last four fights, a fact that Gaethje believes should be enough to warrant a shot at the UFC lightweight title.

The “Exhibition” Loss to Max Holloway: What Does It Mean?

Following his victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, Gaethje took to social media to make his case for a title shot. He tweeted:

“I have won three of my last four fights, and the only loss was in an exhibition. I have to fight for the belt. @danawhite, I’m ready.”

While UFC fights are never officially considered exhibitions, Gaethje’s use of the term suggests he views his Holloway loss as an entertainment spectacle rather than a career setback. The fight was a non-title bout at UFC 300, and in his eyes, it doesn’t diminish his contention for the lightweight championship.

Does Gaethje Deserve a Title Shot?

There are several key arguments in favor of Gaethje receiving the next lightweight title opportunity.

1. He Has Beaten Top Contenders

Gaethje’s resume speaks for itself. His wins over Dustin Poirier and Rafael Fiziev have shown that he is still one of the most dangerous lightweights in the UFC.

2. He Is a Fan Favorite

Dana White and the UFC brass often consider marketability when granting title shots. Gaethje is one of the most exciting fighters in the sport, and his aggressive, all-action style guarantees must-watch fights.

3. The Timing Is Right

Current UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is expected to defend his title later in 2025. Gaethje is one of the most accomplished contenders available, and with Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush suffering recent setbacks, Gaethje stands out as the most logical choice for the next title shot.

Potential Challenges to Gaethje’s Title Shot

While Gaethje has made a strong case, he does face some potential roadblocks.

1. Islam Makhachev’s Next Opponent

It is still unclear who Islam Makhachev will fight next. Other names in contention include Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria, both of whom have been making strong cases for a shot at the lightweight gold.

2. UFC’s Business Interests

The UFC often prioritizes fights that generate the most revenue. If a more financially lucrative matchup presents itself, Gaethje could find himself waiting longer than expected.

3. Possible Holloway Rematch

After their instant classic at UFC 300, there is a possibility that the UFC could book a rematch between Gaethje and Holloway, delaying his title aspirations.

What’s Next for Justin Gaethje?

If Gaethje doesn’t get an immediate title shot, he may have to take another high-profile fight to cement his claim. Possible matchups include:

A trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier
A rematch with Charles Oliveira
A fight against Arman Tsarukyan

Regardless of what happens next, Gaethje is in prime position for another run at UFC gold.

Conclusion

Justin Gaethje has been one of the most exciting and consistent fighters in the UFC lightweight division. With three wins in his last four fights, including a victory over Dustin Poirier, he has every reason to demand a title shot.

While his loss to Max Holloway was a setback, his dominance over Rafael Fiziev and his overall track record make him a top contender for the UFC lightweight championship.

Now, all eyes are on Dana White and the UFC matchmakers. Will they grant Gaethje his wish, or will he have to fight once more before getting another shot at the lightweight belt?

One thing is certain: wherever Gaethje fights next, it’s guaranteed to be must-watch action!