Justin Gaethje reclaimed the UFC interim lightweight title earlier this month at UFC 324 when he handed Paddy Pimblett his first defeat in the Octagon. Gaethje put in a throwback performance against Pimblett to earn the interim title and a likely clash with lineal lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.
Gaethje likely only has a handful of fights left before he hangs up the gloves. His old coach, Trevor Wittman, recently admitted that his student’s current title win is the final chapter of his career.
Following Gaethje’s victory at UFC 324, his former rival, Dustin Poirier, teased a potential comeback fight for a trilogy with the newly crowned interim champion. Poirier retired after a loss to Max Holloway at UFC 318 last summer.
Just over a week after Poirier’s intriguing proposal, Gaethje has responded.
Justin Gaethje answers Dustin Poirier’s latest comeback teases after UFC 324
In a recent interview with Bloody elbowGaethje responded to Poirier’s recent comments on social media.
“Dustin is a warrior and I will always respect him,” Gaethje replied.
“If he really wants to come back and the UFC wants that fight, I would. But I’m focused on moving forward, not backwards. I have goals that I’m chasing, and that’s where my focus is.”
Since announcing his retirement at UFC 318, Poirier has remained with Mixed Martial Arts as a television analyst for the promotion. He has previously admitted that potential fights with Nate Diaz and Gaethje would likely draw him back into contention.
At the time of writing, it is uncertain when Topuria will return to the Octagon amid his indefinite hiatus. He could potentially move up to welterweight to challenge for Islam Makhachev’s title.
In the meantime, Gaethje has a potential fight on his hands in Poirier if the legendary fighter continues his comeback tease. But Gaethje is focused on winning an undisputed title before hanging up the gloves.
What is your prediction for Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria? Let us know in the comments!
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