Justin Gaethje remains the biggest storyline in the UFC lightweight division as the reigning champion confirmed he is nowhere near ready to return to action.
Gaethje captured the undisputed UFC lightweight title with a stunning victory over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, but the win came at a significant cost. The former interim champion suffered injuries to both hands during the fight and continues to deal with the aftermath months later.
While fans hoped to see “The Highlight” make another appearance before the end of the year, Gaethje recently revealed that a return in 2026 is off the table.
Speaking to Sports Illustrated, Gaethje admitted that his recovery is taking longer than expected and that his hands have not fully healed.
“I still can’t punch anything,” Gaethje said. “Both of my hands are still hurt from the fight, so I’m just going to enjoy being the champion for the rest of the year because I fought two times already in the first six months.”
The update confirms that Justin Gaethje’s injuries are more than just a temporary setback. Despite winning two massive fights this year, the damage sustained inside the Octagon has forced him to step away and focus entirely on recovery.
Beyond his physical recovery, Gaethje is also taking time to evaluate the next chapter of his career.
The lightweight champion has repeatedly hinted that he intends to fight again, but he wants to carefully weigh every option before making a final decision.
“Put everything on paper, pros and cons, talk to my family and everybody that loves me to be honest with me, and then I’ll make a decision,” Gaethje explained.
For now, Gaethje appears content to enjoy life as champion while giving his body the time it needs to heal.
With Justin Gaethje still injured, the lightweight title picture remains on hold.
Arman Tsarukyan is widely viewed as one of the leading contenders. His team recently suggested that a victory over Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 would secure him a title shot. If that scenario plays out, Tsarukyan may need to remain patient while waiting for Gaethje’s return.
Former champions Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway are also firmly in the conversation.
Both men hold victories over Gaethje, making either matchup an intriguing option. Oliveira may currently hold the stronger claim after his recent success, while a Holloway rematch would give Gaethje the chance to avenge one of the most memorable losses of his career.
Some fans have called for an immediate rematch between Gaethje and Topuria following their unforgettable title clash. However, Gaethje doesn’t believe that’s the direction the UFC will take.
The lightweight champion suggested that both fighters are still recovering from the damage sustained during the bout and doesn’t expect to see Topuria standing across from him next.
“Ultimately, the UFC makes the decision on who I’m going to fight next,” Gaethje said. “I guess if I’m not fighting until next year, he’s probably not going to fight until next year, too, seeing as he’s still recovering from some things. I don’t think that’s my next fight, in my gut.”
