Justin Gaethje to attend McGregor vs. Holloway title eliminator

Justin Gaethje plans to attend the Conor McGregor-Max Holloway lightweight showdown, according to MMA Mania, positioning himself as the likely next challenger for the winner of what could be a title eliminator.

Gaethje, who most recently fought Ilia Topuria for the lightweight championship at UFC Freedom 250 on the South Lawn of the White House this past June, appears set to scout his future opponent in person. The former interim champion has made no secret of his intentions to reclaim UFC gold, and a win for either McGregor or Holloway would put them squarely in his crosshairs.

McGregor one win from another title shot

McGregor, returning to lightweight after an extended layoff, is reportedly one victory away from a third title shot in the division. Holloway, meanwhile, has long angled for a return to 155 pounds after dominating featherweight for years. The matchup has drawn significant attention as a potential number-one contender fight, though the UFC has not officially confirmed that designation.

Gaethje's decision to attend suggests he expects the winner to leapfrog other contenders in the lightweight queue. His comments on social media also revealed an interesting wrinkle in his personal code — he would not accept a truck from Arman Tsarukyan but confirmed he would send Topuria a thousand dollars, per MMA Mania's coverage of his recent posts.

The McGregor-Holloway card does not yet have an official date, though early 2027 remains the working target for the Irishman's return to active competition.

Original reporting:

• mmamania.com — Next title shot? Justin Gaethje confirms he’ll attend Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway | MMA Mania