Three Potential Paths: Justin Gaethje's Next Move in the UFC Spotlight
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Justin Gaethje is one of the best lightweights in the UFC. The American always puts on a show for the fans. He can produce great performances when competing. Gaethje is coming off a loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300. It was a spectacular clash between two legends. Many people are wondering what is next for the former interim lightweight champion. There are many exciting options for the ex-BMF titleholder if he wants them.
Dan Hooker
Dan Hooker is an amazing fighter. Like Gaethje, he puts on a great show when he competes. The New Zealander is as tough as they come and can strike with the very best of them. Hooker has a professional record of 23-12 with 18 finishes. He has had great fights with Dustin Poirier, Paul Felder, and Gilbert Burns. The 34-year-old has been a mainstay in the lightweight division for many years. A win over Gaethje could propel him to the top. From Gaethje's view, a fight with Hooker makes sense. Hooker is a big enough name to attract a lot of attention. Their styles would make for a great fight. Also, beating the New Zealander would cement Gaethje's spot at 155.
Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor will make his long-awaited return at UFC 303 against Michael Chandler. The Irishman and Gaethje have been big names at 155 throughout their time in the division. Yet the two have never fought, but it is clear that they are not each other's biggest fans. Whatever the result with Chandler, it doesn't matter. The fight makes sense because they are fan favorites. A battle between the two would be one of the division's biggest. They are both fantastic strikers and love to produce awe-inspiring knockouts. For Gaethje, he will feel like it is a winnable fight. Furthermore, whenever you take on McGregor, it comes with a big paycheck. A fight between McGregor and Gaethje would make the UFC a lot of money because many people want to see the battle.
Jorge Masvidal
Jorge Masvidal became one of the UFC's biggest stars while with the company. He is also the original BMF titleholder and has expressed interest in a clash with Gaethje. Masvidal is one of the biggest stars the company has ever seen and has grown drawn many eyeballs to the UFC. He is the whole reason the BMF title exists, along with Nate Diaz. A fight with Masvidal would likely mean a move up to 170 for Gaethje. Yet, everything is good as it allows him to make money in a fight with Masvidal and not have to cut to 155. It would be an entertaining clash between the two and would likely produce fireworks.
Gaethje is a great fighter; seeing what he does next will be interesting.
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