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Justin Gaethje Says He Plans to Return to Fighting, but Has Never Defended a UFC Title
The 37-year-old champion told Joe Rogan he intends to fight again after his most recent win. He has never defended a UFC title despite holding interim gold twice.
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Justin Gaethje stated on June 21, 2026 that he plans to return to fighting. The 37-year-old confirmed he is the current UFC lightweight champion. Gaethje had previously said that fighting in 2026 was not part of his plan.
He later indicated he still intends to return as champion. Joe Rogan asked Gaethje whether he would return to the cage after his most recent win. “Right now, I’m planning on it,” Gaethje said. “There’s not something natural in me that feels like it’s over.
Rogan suggested Arman Tsarukyan as a potential next opponent. Gaethje replied that Tsarukyan “is definitely the guy that’s up” but added he could not name a specific opponent when pressed. Gaethje has never defended a UFC title despite holding interim gold twice.
He lost to Dustin Poirier in 2018. com reported the exchange took place during a post-fight discussion after Gaethje’s most recent victory.
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