Dana White Offered Solution to Bring Justin Gaethje Out of ‘Retirement’ Without Title Shot

Kamaru Usman offers advice to UFC CEO Dana White to keep teammate Justin Gaethje after the title shot and retirement fiasco.

Dana White Offered Solution to Bring Justin Gaethje Out of ‘Retirement’ Without Title Shot

Kamaru Usman lays out plan for Dana White to avoid Justin Gaethje retirement (via Fox News, Instagram)

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In the ever-evolving world of professional sports, athletes often find themselves at crossroads, balancing personal ambitions with the expectations of their organizations. Such moments not only shape careers but also influence the dynamics within the sports industry. While Justin Gaethje is threatening retirement for not getting a title shot, Kamaru Usman lays out a plan for UFC CEO Dana White to keep him.

For the unversed, Gaethje is a prominent figure in the UFC’s lightweight division and recently made headlines with his bold ultimatum: a title fight against lightweight kingpin Ilia Topuria or retirement. His comments stem from the disappointment of being left out of the title conversation by White, even after putting on a dominant performance against Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313.

In response to Gaethje’s ultimatum, Usman, who himself is a former UFC welterweight champion, proposed an alternative approach. Usman and Gaethje have shared a dynamic of brotherhood due to training together on multiple instances under Trevor Wittman. The Nigerian native recently outlined a plan for White to keep Gaethje fighting in an episode of the Pound 4 Pound Podcast.

Justin Gaethje on the (White House) card, I think that’s a no-brainer, (against) Paddy Pimblett? I see it. And I think in a circumstance and a situation like that, I think that’s something that Justin Gaethje might get up for. I think that’s the only case when he entertains a fight like that and it not be for the title.

Kamaru Usman via Pound4Pound podcast

Usman’s comments hint at a potential fight against English superstar Paddy Pimblett. The Scouser has been vocal regarding his desire to jump over the top 5 and face Topuria for the title shot. However, sudden changes in ranking point to an obvious matchup between the two. Gaethje himself has snubbed a potential fight against Pimblett and revealed that he would rather retire.

However, the former interim kingpin has expressed a different vision for his future. He plans to challenge Topuria for the lightweight title this year and, if successful, defend it at the 2026 White House event. This plan underscores Gaethje’s commitment to his championship aspirations and his desire to participate in landmark events that align with his career goals.

The contrasting viewpoints of Usman and Gaethje underscore the complexities athletes face when making career decisions. While Usman emphasizes the potential of special events as motivators, Gaethje remains focused on traditional milestones, such as title defenses.

UFC veteran supports Justin Gaethje’s title shot claim

In the fast-paced world of mixed martial arts, even top-tier athletes can face setbacks that challenge their career trajectories. Justin Gaethje recently expressed frustration over the uncertainty surrounding his next title opportunity. However, there are many from the MMA community who believe that ‘The Highlight’ deserves a title shot next.

Michael Chiesa supports Justin Gaethje
Michael Chiesa supports Justin Gaethje (via MMA Fighting)

Michael Chiesa, a seasoned UFC veteran, recently weighed in on the 155lbs division’s title picture. He noted that Gaethje’s recent performances and status as a top contender warrant serious consideration for a championship bout. Chiesa’s observations highlight the significance of consistent performance and ranking in determining a fighter’s opportunities, particularly when expectations are high.

I’ve heard it could be Justin. For the Justin fight, yes, it’s a tough matchup for him, but worst-case scenario, even if Justin wins the title, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. He’s one of the most beloved fighters on the roster. For me, as a fighter, a big part of me feels like, you know what? Give Justin Gaethje that title fight because we only have him for just this much longer.

Michael Chiesa via MMA Junkie

These developments in the lightweight division reflect both the fluid nature of competition and the complex factors behind title assignments. Gaethje’s situation illustrates how disappointment can emerge even for elite fighters, while promotional decisions, rankings, and performance trajectories collectively shape the path toward a championship.

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