Justin Gaethje names final opponents before UFC retirement

“The Highlight” knows the clock is ticking.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fan favorite Justin Gaethje will attempt to become a two-time UFC Lightweight interim champion next weekend when he collides with No. 5-rankedPaddy Pimblett at UFC 324 on Sat., Jan. 24, 2026, inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Before landing another shot at UFC gold, Gaethje made it clear he wasn’t interested in continuing his career without meaningful opportunities. Thanks to his resume and body of work, he was prepared to walk away — but for now, he has unfinished business.

And he knows exactly who he wants next.

Speaking with Jon Anik on Paramount+, Gaethje was asked whether he sees himself having over or under two fights left in his career.

“Once I get this belt, I’m not going to stop,” Gaethje said. “I’m going to beat Paddy, I’m going to beat Ilia [Topuria], and then I gotta get Max [Holloway] back — I have to. I need him to beat Charles [Oliveira]. Well, actually it doesn’t matter because they both beat me, so I want either one of them. Those are the only two guys I have the opportunity to get back right now. That’s what I’m shooting for.”

Despite his confidence, Gaethje understands he’s operating on borrowed time and is far closer to retirement than a long-term title reign.

“Every single one of these is a traumatic life experience,” Gaethje told TNT Sports recently. “There’s no matching the high or the low of winning or losing in this sport. It kind of ruins other parts of life. But I’m so hungry, and I’ve never felt more alive than when I go in there. I will miss it when it’s gone. I think I truly love it more than most.”

“This isn’t the beginning,” Gaethje concluded. “I’m 37 years old. I’d be a fool to think we’re just getting started here. The end is near.”

For the current UFC 324 fight card and Paramount+ lineup click here.