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UFC champion Islam Makhachev has given his thoughts on the future of the new lightweight king Justin Gaethje.
At UFC Freedom 250, Justin Gaethje shocked the world and became the new undisputed UFC lightweight champion. He achieved this goal by forcing Ilia Topuria to quit on the stool, capping off what has been an incredible rollercoaster ride to the top of the division across the last ten years.
Now, many are questioning what exactly is left for Gaethje to accomplish in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Some want to see him compete for as long as he physically can, whereas others feel like retirement would be a solid option given the punishment he has put his body through over the years.
In a recent interview, Islam Makhachev weighed in on the Gaethje debate.
Makhachev discusses Gaethje’s future
“I don’t know. I think this guy make like enough in this sport,” Makhachev told MMA Junkie of Gaethje. “He became UFC champion. He also has many records. What’s next for him? If I’m matchmaker, I don’t know honestly. But this guy is not in good shape right now. I saw him last week. I said, ‘Hey, why you become fat?’ He’s just enjoying the belt. He deserves it.”
“I said before that fight, Justin is a warrior,” Makhachev said. “He’s going to fight. You have to knock him out to stop him. This guy is going to fight all rounds. Maybe Topuria a little bit underestimated him. I don’t know. It is what it is. This is MMA, small gloves, and very dangerous sport.”
Quotes via MMA Junkie
What do you believe should be next for Justin Gaethje in his mixed martial arts career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, BJPENN Nation!
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