Everyone in the UFC is essentially fighting for two things: big paychecks and the coveted championship belt. So it’s no surprise that most complaints boil down to one of two issues—fighters either feel underpaid or overlooked for a title shot. That’s exactly the case with Justin Gaethje. UFC commentator Jon Anik said Gaethje was furious after the UFC gave Charles Oliveira the title shot against Ilia Topuria instead of him.
Jon Anik revealed that during a round of golf, Gaethje showed clear signs of frustration and disappointment. ‘Highlight’ believes the UFC favored Charles Oliveira over him for the upcoming title fight against Ilia Topuria, which he feels was unfair. Gaethje and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, are now seeking some assurance or guarantee from the UFC that Gaethje will be the next in line for a title shot.
“He was pi–ed, right? He feels like, certainly, he was passed over in favor of Charles Oliveira for this opportunity against Ilia Topuria. And I think what Justin Gaethje and his manager Ali Abdelaziz, Kenny, are looking for is just some sort of guarantee that they will be next,” he said.
Paddy Pimblett Wants Justin Gaethje Fight To Earn Title Shot
Paddy Pimblett recently weighed in on the UFC lightweight title picture, expressing interest in potentially fighting either Justin Gaethje or Ilia Topuria. He admitted he’s unsure who he wants to win the upcoming Charles Oliveira vs. Topuria fight. While he’s a fan of Charles, he believes it might be better for his career if Topuria wins.
Pimblett sees a clearer path to a title shot in that scenario, likely becoming Topuria’s first title defense. He believes a win over Gaethje would secure him a title shot, provided Gaethje accepts the fight.
Also Read: Arman Tsarukyan Drops An Interesting Take On UFC Lightweight Division