5 opponents for Justin Gaethje when he returns to the UFC
Justin Gaethje is one of the most vicious strikers in the UFC. The former interim lightweight champion has made a career of putting on entertaining fights and finishing his opponents in devastating fashion. The American has earned Fight of the Night on six occasions and Performance of the Night four times.
Despite the accolades, 'The Highlight' has come up short in both his title fights. He was submitted by then lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2020 in the 'The Eagle's final bout. He was able to rebound with a spectacular unanimous decision win over Michael Chandler, only to then be submitted by Charles Oliveira in his second title attempt this past May. Although Gaethje is the No.3-ranked lightweight, it could be a while before he receives another title shot.
There are lucrative bouts at lightweight, and depending on the opponent, a welterweight move could also be appealing. This list will look at five opponents for Justin Gaethje when he returns to the UFC.
#5. No.6-ranked UFC welterweight Vicente Luque
Vicente Luque vs. Geoff Neal in the works for UFC event on August 6 (@DamonMartin) mmafighting.com/2022/5/12/2306… https://t.co/yjeXVoobLo
No.6-ranked UFC welterweight Vicente Luque would be a great test should Justin Gaethje attempt a move to 170 pounds. Luque is a very dynamic striker who is similar to 'The Highlight' in the way he utilizes leg-kicks. He is far from being a one-dimensional fighter, however, as he also has excellent jiu-jitsu.
19 of 'The Silent Assassin's' wins have come via stoppage: 11 wins via KO/TKO wins and 8 via submission. He is currently coming off a unanimous decision loss to Belal Muhammad. Notably, the loss snapped his three-fight winning streak and removed him from title contention — for the time being. He will attempt to get back on track when he fights Geoff Neal on August 6.
Based on their fighting styles, Vincent Luque vs. Justin Gaethje could be an entertaining standup battle. It would be interesting to see whether 'The Highlight' is as durable at welterweight, considering the difference in power.