Newly minted interim UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje wants to fight on June 14, when the promotion heads to the South Lawn of the White House.
Earlier tonight, ‘The Highlight’ grabbed the interim strap for the second time in his career, this time by completely dismantling Paddy Pimblett in the main event at UFC 324.
Things went as planned for the 37-year-old, and he dragged the Brit into deep waters, landed the perfect combinations throughout, fought in the pocket, and cruised to a unanimous decision win in a dominant fashion.
Justin Gaethje wants to fight Ilia Topuria at the White House
At the post-fight presser, Justin Gaethje lauded Paddy Pimblett’s performance, adding that the latter rocked his brain a couple of times. The current and two-time interim kingpin then discussed when he wants to fight next.
‘The Highlight’ stated that he is hell-bent on being a part of the UFC White House Card. Gaethje’s next bout will be a title unification bout vs. Ilia Topuria, and both fighters have shown interest in fighting on June 14. Gaethje said:
“He [Paddy Pimblett] fu**ing rocked my brain a couple of times, and the only thing we have over the more dangerous sports, which are boxing and football, is that we get to take time. So I will do that, but the White House [Card] is in June. I represent this country. I represented it tonight… There’s no way to keep me off that card, unless I am dead.”
Check out Justin Gaethje’s comments below:
Meanwhile, Topuria has already warned Gaethje ahead of the interim title showdown. Post UFC 324, ‘El Matador’ posted on X:
“Justin, all I can say is congratulations… and I’d like to tell you to get ready, but you’re screwed no matter what.”
Check out Ilia Topuria’s comments below:
Topuria is currently on a hiatus due to personal reasons. He aims to return and fight between April and June.
Meanwhile, Dana White has confirmed that the UFC brass will start putting the pieces together for the White House card starting Monday, which is tomorrow. White wants to get the fighter lineup finalized by the second week of February. As per rumors, there could be 6-7 title fights on this card.
Other than Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria, almost every major UFC star, including Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler, Jon Jones, Alex Pereira, and Merab Dvalishvili, among others have expressed interest in fighting on June 14.
