Gaethje's Next Move: Title Defense or Retirement?

UFC Lightweight Champion Justin Gaethje has not yet determined his next career move following his title win in June. Gaethje is contemplating two primary scenarios: defending his championship against Arman Tsarukyan or retiring from the sport entirely. His coach, John Wood, recently shared his perspective, expressing that while he supports any decision, he ideally hopes Gaethje pursues one more lucrative fight for a significant payday before considering retirement. Gaethje has opted to remain inactive through early next year, a decision Wood views as wise after two demanding fights within the past year. The champion has also been at the center of a controversy involving an accusation of illegal substances being placed in his gloves during his bout against Ilia Topuria. This claim was officially dismissed. The event itself was notable, taking place at the White House. Despite the controversies, Gaethje secured a decisive victory against Topuria just before the fifth round, a win he believes was due to his opponent's physical compromise rather than a quit.