JUSTIN GAETHJE

Representing the Elevation Fight Team, this American lightweight competes from an orthodox stance. His background as an NCAA Division I All-American wrestler complements an aggressive striking approach defined by heavy leg kicks and knockout potential. Before his tenure in the octagon, he reigned as the sole WSOF lightweight titleholder, successfully defending that belt five times. Within the UFC, he has secured status as a two-time interim champion and former BMF belt holder. His professional journey is marked by a record-breaking number of post-fight performance bonuses within the lightweight weight class.

Heading into this event, he carries a professional record of 28-5-0. He enters this matchup riding a three-fight winning streak. His most recent victory came in June 2026 against Ilia Topuria via corner stoppage. Prior to that, he earned unanimous decision wins over Paddy Pimblett in January 2026 and Rafael Fiziev in March 2025. This current momentum follows a knockout loss against Max Holloway in April 2024, which occurred after he defeated Dustin Poirier by head kick in July 2023.