5 potential opponents for Justin Gaethje after his latest setback at UFC 274

#4. Justin Gaethje vs. Dustin Poirier 2

UFC 236: Dustin Poirier

Regardless of the rankings and title implications, this is a fight that fans want to see for a second time. When Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier initially met in 2018, the expectation was set for it to be an instant classic. The two fighters went above and beyond that expectation and delivered one of the most violent fights in UFC history.

Watch the highlights below:

Both fighters are ultimately after gold, though. With Gaethje and 'The Diamond' coming off losses to Charles Oliveira, they both need to rack up wins to rise to title contention again, if at all. The winner could easily state their claim as the next in line to rematch the Brazilian number one contender.

Lightweight might be the toughest division to earn a title shot in -- the champions are always dominant, the top five at lightweight is steeped in talent, and there are some very popular names in the mix. If either Gaethje or Poirier can finish the other emphatically, that'll help them to potentially leapfrog other contenders.

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#3. Justin Gaethje against winner of Rafael dos Anjos vs. Rafael Fiziev

UFC 272: Rafael dos Anjos

Though he's more silent than the others, RDA is still a force to be reckoned with when discussing lightweight. Most recently, taking on the short notice Renato Moicano in a catchweight bout, he looked better than ever as he secured a unanimous decision victory over the course of five rounds.

This summer, the former lightweight champion will be taking on rising contender Rafael Fiziev at the UFC Apex. 'Ataman' has an extensive background in Muay Thai and is currently riding a wave of five consecutive victories in the UFC.

Whoever wins between dos Anjos and Fiziev will undoubtedly be in the discussion of top contenders. Gaethje could still be capable of winning the lightweight title should he put in the effort, and taking on the winner of dos Anjos vs. Fiziev would be a great rebound fight for 'The Highlight'. Should the Russian manage to beat the Brazilian, a fight between Gaethje and Fiziev would be absolute fireworks.