The world of MMA is cruel, relentless, and painful. In a place where patience can be the key or your doom, some calculated moves to take forward can easily enhance or destroy a career. And that is the case of Justin Gaethje, who was in the headlines recently when he was being discussed as the rightful challenger instead of Charles Oliveira against Ilia Topuria at UFC 317.
But in the latest turn of events, it seems Gaethje has secured himself an even bigger reward. As he lets Charles and Ilia compete at UFC 317 for the lightweight belt, in return, Gaethje will have a title shot with the winner of their bout. At least that is what UFC legend Chael Sonnen believes is next in his career.
Sonnen is quoted by MMA Blogger Parry Punch in a post on X, revealing the plans of the UFC and Justin Gaethje moving forward from this point. Sonnen said, “Justin Gaethje is not going to take a fight. He has declared himself No. 1 contender. He has agreed to allow Charles and Ilia to handle their business, and he will wait for the winner.”
The ‘Bad Guy’ further added, “Given the circumstance that he’s in, per the policy with the manager that he has(Ali Abdelaziz) he is far more likely to get that than not. So according to Ali and according to Justin Gaethje, Justin’s next fight will be for the championship.” Before this prediction, Sonnen had correctly predicted the final fight of Dustin Poirier, who is going to face Max Holloway, and Chael had revealed the news before its official announcement. Can he be right again?
Should Topuria emerge victorious at UFC 317, a matchup between ‘El Matador’ and Gaethje would be a clash of styles and a test of resilience. Alternatively, if Oliveira reclaims the title, Gaethje would have the opportunity to avenge his previous loss and solidify his legacy in the lightweight division. But will he be able to beat either?
Justin Gaethje will wait to fight the winner of vacant lightweight title fight between Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira on June 28th. #UFC317
“Justin Gaethje is not going to take a fight,” Chael Sonnen said via his YouTube channel. “He has declared himself No. 1 contender.… pic.twitter.com/4ILfCqQAGX
— Parry Punch (@ParryPunchNews) May 25, 2025
As Gaethje plans for his path ahead, he has to remain cautious. In the ever-rising competition of the UFC, waiting can be lethal. But waiting with your next steps marked has led to some huge moments in the UFC. And if you ask history, Gaethje can do the same.
When fighters wait for the perfect opportunity: Will Justin Gaethje get the gold?
In the highly competitive world of the UFC, fighters often face a pivotal decision: stay active and risk a loss, or they can wait patiently for a title shot. Justin Gaethje’s recent move to await the outcome of Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira embodies this strategic patience. But he’s not alone; several fighters have made a similar decision and yielded their fresh gold made for their waists.
Leon Edwards had to endure a prolonged journey to the welterweight title. His run was marked by a 10-fight unbeaten streak over nearly three years. Despite setbacks like canceled bouts and a no-contest due to an eye poke, Edwards chose to wait for his opportunity rather than risk his standing. His patience paid off when he knocked out Kamaru Usman in the fifth round at UFC 278, to claim the championship.
Similarly, despite an impressive winning streak, Belal Muhammad found himself overlooked for a title shot. His frustration grew when UFC CEO and President Dana White suggested he needed another win, even after defeating top contenders like Gilbert Burns. Seeking guidance, Muhammad turned to Khabib Nurmagomedov, who advised patience. And after his months of training in Dagestan, when ‘Bully B’ finally got his title shot, he dominated Edwards to a unanimous decision victory and became the king of the welterweights.
Will fate be the same for Justin Gaethje? Perhaps he could go to Dagestan too. Learn some heavy wrestling. He can already beat his opponents in stand-up. Then he’ll be able to “smesh” his opponents too. Of course, we kid. But Justin Gaethje is no man to take lightly. Maybe the biggest highlight for the ‘Human Highlight Reel’ is still ahead. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
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