Justin Gaethje Sends a Challenge to Islam Makhachev: “I Was Ready to Fight Even Two Months Ago!” Will the Match Happen?

After a gritty win over Rafael Fiziev, Justin Gaethje has once again found himself in the thick of the UFC lightweight title conversation. The American brawler, known for his relentless aggression and iron will, believes now is the time for the promotion to reward him with a long-awaited shot at Islam Makhachev. Following a decisive performance at UFC 313, Gaethje has voiced his readiness to step into the Octagon again, even if the bout comes with short notice.

This isn’t the first time Gaethje has found himself circling the championship picture. With a record of 4-1 in his last five and his only loss coming against Max Holloway in a spectacular finish, many fans believe Gaethje’s résumé is strong enough to earn a second title shot. “I’m ready to go in June,” Gaethje told The Schmo, adding that he hopes Makhachev follows through on his stated intention to fight during the summer.

Chaos in the Lightweight Division: Who Gets the Call?

The lightweight division is arguably the most competitive and unpredictable in the UFC. With Ilia Topuria potentially moving up in weight and Charles Oliveira still a major player, the promotion faces a difficult decision regarding who should challenge Makhachev next. Gaethje believes the situation could easily favor him. “One of three names should get the title shot,” he said. “Me, Oliveira, or Topuria.”

Topuria’s situation is particularly intriguing. The featherweight champion is expected to vacate his title soon, especially if Alexander Volkanovski falls to Diego Lopes at UFC 314. That would clear a path for Topuria to move up to 155 pounds—adding another elite contender to an already stacked lineup. Islam Makhachev, meanwhile, has hinted at the possibility of moving to welterweight, especially if Jack Della Maddalena becomes champion at UFC 315.

Bold Keywords: Justin Gaethje, Islam Makhachev, UFC lightweight title

But if Makhachev stays at 155 pounds, it opens a clearer path for Gaethje to finally get his title opportunity. Many fans and analysts agree that Gaethje has “paid his dues” and consistently delivered electrifying performances. Justin Gaethje’s name alone draws massive fan engagement, and a showdown with Makhachev could be one of the most explosive bouts of 2025.

Makhachev’s Future Uncertain: Will He Stay or Move Up?

Islam Makhachev’s next move remains a mystery. The dominant champion has hinted at ambitions to conquer another weight class, possibly making a run at the 170-pound welterweight title. If he follows in the footsteps of his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and chooses legacy over immediate defenses, the UFC could soon be left scrambling to fill a power vacuum at lightweight.

That scenario could play right into Justin Gaethje’s hands. If Makhachev vacates the belt, the UFC will likely organize a fight for the vacant title—and Gaethje’s name is guaranteed to be in the mix. A fight against Charles Oliveira or Ilia Topuria for the undisputed belt would be a blockbuster draw. Gaethje has been vocal about his readiness, but also realistic about the uncertainty. “I’m not at the beginning of the journey anymore,” he admitted. “This is the end of the road. It’s now or never.”

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At age 35, Gaethje knows the window is closing. His all-action style has taken a toll, but his fighting spirit remains undiminished. Few fighters are as exciting or beloved by fans, making him an ideal candidate for the UFC’s International Fight Week in July.

A History of Near Misses and Brutal Comebacks

Gaethje’s UFC career has been a rollercoaster of triumph and heartbreak. Since joining the promotion in 2017, he’s had wars with the likes of Dustin Poirier, Tony Ferguson, and Michael Chandler. His interim title win against Ferguson at UFC 249 was a career-defining moment, but he fell short against Khabib in the title unification bout.

After losing to Charles Oliveira in another title shot, many wondered if Gaethje’s window had closed. But instead of retreating, he came back stronger. His war with Fiziev at UFC 286 and rebound performance at UFC 313 have proven he’s still among the elite. In a division filled with dangerous strikers and elite grapplers, Justin Gaethje has shown he can hang with the best.

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Now, as the division teeters between chaos and clarity, Gaethje hopes the matchmakers see what the fans see—an aging warrior still capable of greatness. Whether it’s Makhachev, Topuria, or another top contender, Gaethje is ready to go.

Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria: Real Threats or Convenient Choices?

While Charles Oliveira is still considered a top-tier contender, his previous loss to Makhachev might disqualify him from an immediate rematch. Still, Oliveira remains a fan favorite, and his finishing ability always makes him a viable threat. A Gaethje vs. Oliveira rematch would have huge implications for the division.

Ilia Topuria, on the other hand, is a rising star. With his unbeaten record and confident demeanor, the Georgian-Spanish fighter has become a must-watch talent. If he relinquishes his featherweight belt, his move to lightweight could immediately result in a title shot. But Gaethje questions whether Topuria has truly earned it yet. “Let’s see if they give it to Topuria,” he said. “I wouldn’t be surprised, but it should be me.”

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Topuria’s hype is undeniable, but Gaethje has the credentials, the wars, and the résumé. The question is whether the UFC will prioritize hype over tenure—or give Gaethje one last shot at gold.

The Timeline: UFC 317 and the Waiting Game

With UFC 317 scheduled for International Fight Week, there’s mounting speculation that it will host the next lightweight title fight. If Makhachev chooses to defend his belt, the UFC must decide which contender gets the nod. For Gaethje, the clock is ticking. He’s asked to be kept in the loop, hoping for an early call so he can fully prepare.

“I’m not just trying to get a paycheck. I want that belt,” Gaethje said. “I want legacy. I want to leave it all in the cage.” His commitment to greatness is evident—not just in his words, but in every fight he’s been in.

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Whether it’s a title shot or a number-one contender eliminator, Gaethje is prepared to go to war. He’s also wary of being passed over, knowing how volatile UFC matchmaking can be. But few fighters make as strong a case for relevance and redemption as The Highlight.

Can Gaethje Finally Win UFC Gold in 2025?

There’s no doubt that Justin Gaethje has earned his place among the sport’s elite. But questions remain: Can he adapt his style to finally win UFC gold? Will the promotion grant him a fair shot amid so many moving pieces? And will Makhachev even be around to defend his belt—or move up and chase history?

One thing is certain: Gaethje’s hunger is still there. He knows the risks. He knows the pain. But he also knows the glory of finally wearing that championship belt. Whether it’s against Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira, or Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje is ready to remind the world why he’s one of the most thrilling fighters the sport has ever seen.

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As we await the UFC’s next move, fans should keep their eyes on Gaethje. Because when that cage door shuts—whoever stands across from him—is in for the fight of a lifetime.