Three Fights Justin Gaethje Should Take Next

Justin Gaethje remains one of the most violent draws in mixed martial arts, but after falling to Max Holloway at UFC 300, the former interim lightweight champion needs a smart next move. At 35, with a 25-5 record and knockout power that can erase any opponent, Gaethje still belongs in the upper echelon of 155 pounds. The question is which direction makes sense — a title eliminator, a grudge match, or a legacy fight that guarantees fireworks. Here are three opponents who fit the bill.

1. Charles Oliveira II
This is the fight. Gaethje and Oliveira met in May 2023 for the vacant lightweight title, and Oliveira submitted him in the first round with a rear-naked choke. The loss stung, but it also created unfinished business. Oliveira has since fallen short against Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan, putting both men in similar positions — former title challengers who need a signature win to re-enter the championship conversation. The stylistic clash remains electric: Gaethje's leg-chewing pressure and one-punch power against Oliveira's slick submissions and unpredictable scrambles. If Gaethje can survive the grappling exchanges and land clean, he erases the first result. If Oliveira taps him again, the narrative shifts permanently. Either outcome delivers drama.

2. Dustin Poirier III
Gaethje and Poirier have split two wars. Poirier took a decision in 2018 when both were rising contenders. Gaethje returned the favor with a fourth-round knockout in 2021, claiming the interim belt. A rubber match would settle the score and likely serve as a title eliminator, especially if Islam Makhachev or Arman Tsarukyan holds the belt by late 2025. Both fighters are in the twilight of their careers, both still possess the tools to finish anyone in the division, and both have hinted they're chasing legacy over longevity. Poirier has teased retirement but continues to fight at the highest level. Gaethje thrives when the stakes are personal. The UFC has a history of booking rubber matches when the series stands 1-1, and this one writes itself. Stylistically, it's a war of attrition — two men who refuse to back down, trading leather until someone breaks.

3. Renato Moicano
This is the wildcard. Moicano has quietly become one of the most dangerous fighters outside the top five, riding a four-fight winning streak with finishes over Jalin Turner and Drew Dober. He's rangy, technical on the feet, and dangerous on the ground — a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt who can exploit any mistake. For Gaethje, this represents a high-reward, moderate-risk fight. A dominant win over a rising contender keeps him relevant without the wear-and-tear of another five-round war. If Moicano pulls the upset, it accelerates his title push and gives Gaethje a tough reset. The narrative hook is simple: gatekeeper bout. Moicano needs a name to crack the elite tier. Gaethje needs a win to stay in the conversation. Both fighters would come to brawl, and the finish rate would be high. It's the kind of Fight Night headliner that delivers violence and clarity in equal measure.

Gaethje's career has always been about taking hard fights and leaving everything in the cage. Any of these three matchups honors that approach. Oliveira offers redemption. Poirier offers closure. Moicano offers momentum. The clock is ticking, but the fights are still there.