Recently crowned BMF titleholder Justin Gaethje is once again fueling speculation about a future showdown with his long-standing UFC rival, Conor McGregor. Gaethje has expressed his longstanding desire to bring an end to the career of the Irish MMA icon.
As the current second-ranked contender in the lightweight division and a former interim champion, Gaethje’s reputation in the UFC is formidable. His recent bout at UFC 291 against Dustin Poirier showcased his prowess, culminating in a second-round high-kick knockout victory in their highly anticipated rematch.
Conor McGregor still harbors hopes of headlining UFC 296 in December. This would mark his return to combat sports following a injury in the form of a fractured left tibia and fibula, leading to a doctor’s stoppage TKO loss to Poirier in the summer of 2021.
After Gaethje’s win in securing the BMF title, McGregor redirected his attention from a potential bout with Michael Chandler. McGregor boldly predicted a one-sided first-round knockout victory over Gaethje.
During a Q&A session preceding UFC 293, Justin Gaethje shared his thoughts on a potential clash with Conor McGregor. He expressed, “Yeah, I mean, it sounds fun. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’ve dreamt of ending his career and making sure he’s never able to step back in there. (Michael) Chandler will now be the second guy that I’ve beat, that he’s chose to fight. And, you know, I think that speaks for itself.”
He continued: “He won’t fight me, plain and simple… Like I said, a chance to take him out for good, would be on the top of my list. I like money too – I fight for money, so that’s always good. No, but the chance to take him out for good – for one, shut all of his fans up for the rest of my life, at least. That’s better for me than the money.”