Overview
- Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria to win the undisputed lightweight title at UFC Freedom 250 on June 15 and has since rejected an immediate rematch request.
- In interviews published July 23–24, Gaethje said Arman Tsarukyan “deserves it way more” than Topuria and listed other viable options such as Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway.
- The champion told reporters he did not get lucky in the win and said Topuria must return to the win column before being considered for another title shot.
- Gaethje said he is likely to take time off and is unlikely to fight again in 2026, which creates a window for the UFC to stage a title-eliminator without the champion.
- Media reports say Tsarukyan is reportedly matched with Charles Oliveira for UFC 331 on September 19, but that booking remains unconfirmed and UFC matchmakers hold final authority.