The lightweight title picture took a dramatic turn in late June when Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira in the opening moments of their UFC 317 main event. Now with the interim lightweight championship approaching on January 24, 2026, the focus shifts to who will ultimately challenge the Georgian-Spanish sensation. Justin Gaethje, the former interim lightweight champion and BMF titleholder, has been vocal about his willingness to step into that role. But admits some areas in that match where he needs to be cautious.
“I Love How Scared I’ll Be” Justin Gaethje’s Respect for Ilia Topuria’s Lethal Combinations
In an interview with ESPNDeportes’ Carlos Contreras Legaspi, Justin Gaethje explained:
“It comes down to not making mistakes against a guy like that.