Gaethje Confirms Extended Layoff With Hand Injury

Justin Gaethje will not return to the octagon until 2027 at the earliest due to lingering hand damage from his June title victory.

The UFC lightweight champion told Sports Illustrated he still cannot make full contact, according to a report first carried by MMA Fighting. "I still can't punch anything," Gaethje said. "Both of my hands are still hurt from the fight so I'm just going to enjoy being the champion for the rest of the year because I fought two times already in the first six months."

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What Gaethje's Absence Means For Title Picture

Gaethje captured undisputed lightweight gold with a decision win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 in June but sustained bilateral hand injuries during the bout. The Arizona native had previously indicated a 2026 return was unlikely, and his latest update confirms his initial timeline remains intact. "Put everything on paper, pros and cons, talk to my family and everybody that loves me to be honest with me and then I'll make a decision," he added.

Arman Tsarukyan's camp told Ariel Helwani that a win over Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on Sept. 19 would secure a title shot. Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway also loom as potential challengers, with Oliveira ahead in the pecking order after defeating Holloway in March. Both men hold finishes over Gaethje, and the champion has expressed interest in avenging those losses.

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The UFC has not announced plans for an interim title fight during Gaethje's recovery period. His next defense is expected to take place in early 2027.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Justin Gaethje remains sidelined until 2027 amid injury update: “Both of my hands are still hurt”