Justin Gaethje acknowledges that his journey as a professional competitor is approaching its conclusion as the new year begins, yet he has meticulously crafted a strategy for a 2026 campaign designed to bring his career narrative to a cohesive close.
In a video message uploaded to his own YouTube channel prior to his interim 155-pound championship match versus Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 in January 2026, a portion of which was shared on the X profile @RedCorner_MMA, Gaethje stated:
“I’d be foolish to believe this marks the start of my fighting journey. This represents my ultimate shot, and the prospect of concluding my career precisely as I envision is truly all I could desire. I’m scheduled to compete against Paddy [Pimblett] for the interim title; if victorious, I’ll then face Ilia [Topuria]. Ilia is currently regarded as the most formidable fighter in my weight class, and by some, universally. What an incredible chance to cap off this career in the very style I’ve maintained throughout.”
“Achieving flawlessness consistently is unfeasible, and therefore, my current objective is to deliver a perfect performance for 25 minutes, seven weeks from now. I’ve accumulated extensive experience and knowledge. I possess the understanding to accomplish this, and now I simply need to rely on my instincts and physical readiness to position myself for success. In the end, my training will instill the self-assurance necessary to compete at my absolute peak.”
Justin Gaethje details “the most ideal conclusion I could ever envision for my career”
As the previous BMF titleholder elaborated on elements of his ambition to secure multiple interim UFC championships, concurrently sustaining his ultimate aspiration of claiming the undisputed lineal belt thereafter, Justin Gaethje proceeded:
“My intention is to perform flawlessly, and when I deliver a perfect fight, I believe an opponent would need fortune on their side to defeat me. However, the hurdle remains; I must be impeccable on that evening to defeat Paddy via knockout and secure my championship opportunity at the White House event. That is the strategy, and I believe if I can achieve it, that would represent the most ideal conclusion I could ever envision for my career.”
