Gaethje – Topuria: A no-holds-barred battle at Madison Square Garden in November

The UFC lightweight division has entered a new era, and at the center of the storm stands Ilia Topuria, the newly crowned lightweight champion. Topuria shocked the world at UFC 317, knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round to seize the lightweight throne. With that stunning victory, the undefeated Georgian-Spanish phenom instantly became the biggest target in the division.

But as the dust settled on his spectacular win, the question emerged: Who would challenge Topuria first?

Several names surfaced—Arman Tsarukyan, Paddy Pimblett, and of course, the relentless Justin Gaethje. But only one man seems hell-bent on making that fight happen, even threatening to end his career if denied the opportunity.

Justin Gaethje’s Ultimatum: Title Shot or Retirement

Never one to mince words, Justin Gaethje laid his cards on the table. The “Highlight” made it clear: he wants the winner of Topuria vs Oliveira, and if he doesn’t get the title shot, he’ll retire from MMA altogether.

Gaethje didn’t hide his intentions before UFC 317.
“I don’t care who wins, I just want to fight the winner,” he told reporters.
And when Austin Keen’s post-fight YouTube video dropped, Gaethje’s tone sharpened:
“Topuria is the big name right now. He’s cocky, I would love to knock him out. But Oliveira beat me, so I want to fight him again. I don’t give a fk who wins. I hope one of them is put to sleep and I get to fight the winner in November at MSG.”**

For Gaethje, the venue is just as important as the opponent. Madison Square Garden in November, during the UFC’s annual New York event, would be the perfect stage for one final war.

Dana White Pushes Back on Gaethje’s Retirement Threat

While the fans might love the drama, UFC CEO Dana White didn’t exactly embrace Gaethje’s ultimatum. After UFC 317, White responded bluntly:
“Listen, everybody has their opinions. If you’re thinking about retiring, you know how I feel about that: You should probably retire. We love Justin Gaethje. He’s been an exciting, fun fighter to have here in the UFC. But to say, ‘Unless you give me a title shot I’m retiring,’ that’s pretty wacky.”

White’s comments indicate that the UFC isn’t willing to be held hostage by a fighter’s demands, no matter how beloved that fighter is. But Gaethje’s resume and popularity could still make his case impossible to ignore.

Why Gaethje vs Topuria Is the Fight Fans Want

The clash between Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria promises fireworks. Both fighters are known for their aggressive styles and highlight-reel knockouts. Gaethje, widely regarded as one of the most violent fighters in UFC history, has the power and striking pressure to test Topuria’s chin.

On the other hand, Topuria is no stranger to knockouts himself. His unbeaten record and flawless technique make him one of the most dangerous strikers in the lightweight division. A showdown with Gaethje wouldn’t just be a fight; it would be a war.

From a marketing standpoint, the UFC would be hard-pressed to find a more exciting matchup for its return to Madison Square Garden.

Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett: The Other Contenders

Still, Gaethje isn’t the only name in the mix. Arman Tsarukyan has been making waves in the lightweight rankings with his grappling-heavy style and recent dominant victories. Many see him as the rightful No. 1 contender, though he lacks Gaethje’s mainstream star power.

Then there’s Paddy Pimblett, the brash Liverpudlian whose personality has propelled him into stardom. Pimblett may not be ranked as high, but his massive fanbase could tempt the UFC into fast-tracking him to a title shot for financial reasons.

For now, though, Topuria has not confirmed his next opponent, leaving the division—and the fans—on edge.

Will Madison Square Garden Host the Lightweight Superfight?

The UFC’s annual November event at Madison Square Garden (MSG) has played host to some of the most memorable fights in modern MMA history. From Conor McGregor making history to Kamaru Usman’s shocking knockout loss to Leon Edwards, MSG always delivers drama.

A headliner like Topuria vs Gaethje would continue that tradition and could even rival some of the biggest lightweight title fights in UFC history.

Gaethje is no stranger to five-round wars under the brightest lights. His bouts with Dustin Poirier, Tony Ferguson, and Michael Chandler are etched in UFC lore. Adding Topuria’s name to that list could create another Fight of the Year candidate.

Gaethje’s Last Shot at Glory?

At 35 years old, Justin Gaethje is nearing the twilight of his career. Though still dangerous, he knows his window for capturing undisputed gold is closing. A former interim champion, Gaethje has come up short in two previous title shots—against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira.

Facing Topuria represents what could be Gaethje’s final chance to secure the one accolade missing from his storied career. And if his threat to retire is genuine, this might be the last time fans see “The Highlight” in the Octagon.

Topuria’s First Defense: A Chance to Silence the Doubters

For Topuria, Gaethje presents the perfect first defense. Beating a respected veteran like Gaethje would silence critics who claim he hasn’t faced elite-level competition outside of Oliveira.

A win over Gaethje would also solidify Topuria’s reputation as a knockout artist and legitimize his reign atop the stacked lightweight division. It would prove he can handle the pressure of being champion and withstand the chaos a fighter like Gaethje brings.

What’s Next for the Lightweight Division?

The lightweight division remains one of the UFC’s most competitive and unpredictable landscapes. With stars like Islam Makhachev, Benoit Saint Denis, Mateusz Gamrot, and Michael Chandler also lurking, no champion can afford to rest on their laurels.

If Gaethje doesn’t get the next shot, he may walk away, leaving the door open for Tsarukyan or a blockbuster bout against Pimblett. Alternatively, the UFC could opt for a mega-fight between Topuria and another marquee name outside the division.

The Fans Are Already Picking Sides

Social media is ablaze with fans debating the matchup:

• Some see Gaethje’s grit and experience overwhelming Topuria’s flashy style.

• Others believe Topuria’s speed and accuracy will exploit Gaethje’s wild exchanges.

• A vocal minority is calling for Tsarukyan to get his long-awaited title shot, citing meritocracy over marketability.

No matter who the UFC selects, one thing is clear—the lightweight division has no shortage of thrilling possibilities.

Final Thoughts: A Collision Course at MSG?

Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria is a fight made for the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. It’s violent, unpredictable, and filled with legacy-defining stakes.

For Gaethje, it’s a chance to finally capture undisputed gold—or walk away from the sport on his own terms. For Topuria, it’s an opportunity to cement his reign by beating one of the division’s most feared knockout artists.

As the UFC navigates contract talks, retirement threats, and matchmaking politics, the fans will wait impatiently. Because whether it’s Gaethje, Tsarukyan, or Pimblett, whoever steps into the cage with Ilia Topuria in November will be part of a must-watch fight.