Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Justin Gaethje Wants Conor McGregor As First Title Challenger
Justin Gaethje recently became the UFC lightweight champion.
He wants Conor McGregor to be his first challenger.
Gaethje said fighting McGregor would be fun because he wants to silence him.
Other possible opponents include Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira.
However, Gaethje said Ilia Topuria has already defeated both of them.
McGregor recently returned after being away for five years.
His fight ended quickly when he hurt his right leg.
Gaethje is recovering from a hand injury and may not fight again until 2027.
Justin Gaethje named Conor McGregor as his preferred first UFC lightweight title challenger.
Gaethje said he would rather face McGregor than rematch Max Holloway or Charles Oliveira.
McGregor’s July comeback against Holloway ended after 69 seconds because of a right leg injury.
Gaethje said Arman Tsarukyan and other upcoming fights could determine his next opponent.
The champion is recovering from a hand injury and does not expect to fight until 2027.
- Who
- UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and potential challenger Conor McGregor are central to the story.
- What
- Gaethje identified McGregor as his preferred first title challenger after defeating Ilia Topuria.
- When
- Gaethje’s title win took place at UFC Freedom 250; his next fight is not expected until 2027.
- Where
- UFC Freedom 250 was held at the White House.
- Why
- Gaethje said he wants a fun fight against McGregor and to shut him up, while other contenders remain uncertain.
- Champion
- Justin Gaethje
- Title
- Undisputed UFC lightweight championship
- Preferred challenger
- Conor McGregor
- Recent title fight
- Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250
- McGregor’s latest comeback
- His fight with Max Holloway stopped after 69 seconds because of a right leg injury
- Next expected fight
- Gaethje does not expect to fight until 2027
- Current injury
- Gaethje is recovering from a hand injury sustained against Topuria