Justin Gaethje’s Surprising Retirement Timeline: When Will the UFC Star Call It Quits?

As Justin Gaethje prepares for his highly anticipated rematch against Dustin Poirier in the main event of UFC 291, the veteran lightweight finds himself contemplating the future of his career. Gaethje’s recent comments about retirement after his win over Rafael Fiziev raised concerns among fans and pundits, but the fighter himself clarifies that emotions often run high after a fight, and his words should be taken with a grain of salt. However, he acknowledges the reality that time is ticking on his fighting journey.

At 34 years old, Gaethje recognizes that he has fewer years ahead of him in the sport than the time he has already dedicated to it. He stated, “It’s just the fact of the matter that I would say, by 37, I would like to not be doing this anymore. Two or three years is a long time, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s not that long.” With over a decade of professional fighting under his belt, Gaethje acknowledges that he is now approaching the back end of his career in the sport.

While Gaethje’s clash with Poirier could potentially earn him another shot at the UFC title, the outcome of that fight won’t be the sole determining factor for his retirement. Gaethje believes that the decision to hang up his gloves should come down to timing, especially when comparing himself to other elite athletes in the UFC. He admires fighters who recognize when to walk away, neither staying too long nor quitting prematurely. Gaethje aspires to find himself in that sweet spot of retiring at “just the right moment.”

Considering Gaethje’s fighting style, which is known for its non-stop aggression and crowd-pleasing performances, it’s easy to argue that he faces more potential harm than the average competitor. Gaethje proudly considers himself the most exciting fighter in the history of the sport, backed by an impressive record of 11 post-fight bonuses, including seven Fight of the Night awards and three Fights of the Year accolades. However, such thrilling displays often result in significant damage to his body.

Despite his relentless approach, Gaethje does not ignore the importance of his long-term health, even if it’s not at the forefront of his mind when he steps into the Octagon. He acknowledges that as he grows older, he becomes wiser and more aware of life’s uncertainties. While he starts to think about these things more, Gaethje remains unfazed by the potential risks he faces each time he fights. He accepts the inherent dangers but aims to find contentment in the situation he has chosen for himself, enabling him to live more freely.

As Gaethje heads into his rematch with Poirier, set to headline UFC 291, he understands the significance of this bout. The outcome could shape the remaining years of his career and potentially determine his shot at the UFC world championship. Gaethje’s fighting style has captivated fans worldwide, and he has no intention of overstaying his welcome. Aware of the toll his approach takes on his body, Gaethje seeks to retire at the right moment when he believes he can no longer be the best in the world with the skills he possesses.

Justin Gaethje’s journey in the Octagon has been marked by heart-pounding battles and unforgettable performances. As he nears the end of his career, he navigates the delicate balance between emotions and the realities of retirement. While the clock may be ticking, Gaethje remains focused on making the most of his remaining time in the sport, delivering thrilling fights and leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most exciting fighters in MMA history.