Justin Gaethje's upcoming UFC fight: Who is the American lightweight fighting next?

Justin Gaethje will be fighting Rafael Fiziev on March 18 at UFC 286.

Whenever Gaethje steps into the Octagon, fans can expect an entertaining fight. ‘The Highlight’ holds a 6-4 UFC record, with his eleventh promotional bout coming against a world-class striker in Fiziev. Picking a winner between the elite lightweights is difficult, but the matchup will be must-see action in the O2 Arena.

Gaethje has lost two championship opportunities in his last three fights. In October 2020, the Arizona native was coming off four consecutive wins, all inside the distance, against James Vick, Edson Barboza, Donald Cerrone, and Tony Ferguson. ‘The Highlight’ had his win streak ended by Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired after securing a second-round submission.

The American bounced back with a thrilling victory against Michael Chandler in November 2021. Six months later, Gaethje was matched up with Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. Unfortunately for him, he lost by a first-round submission. ‘The Highlight’ is now looking to get back on track against Fiziev in March.

Fiziev last fought in July 2022, defeating Rafael dos Anjos with a left hook in the fourth round. ‘Ataman’ extended his win streak to six after taking out Alex White, Marc Diakiese, Renato Moicano, Bobby Green, and Brad Riddell. The 29-year-old has emerged as a legitimate title contender, but he still needs a win against an elite opponent like Gaethje before earning a championship opportunity.

---

What’s at stake between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev?

The winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev could find themselves fighting for the lightweight title next time out. Islam Makhachev defended his throne on February 11, and he’s looking for his next opponent.

Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira are expected to fight in May, with the winner earning a title shot. With that said, Makhachev might not want to wait six or more months, meaning the UFC would need another option in the meantime.

Dustin Poirier has also been named as a potential opponent for Makhachev. Poirier has only one win (Michael Chandler) since losing a lightweight championship fight against Oliveira, but the Louisiana native has star power that helps his argument.

Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev will need another win if the reigning lightweight king decides to wait for the winner between Dairush and ‘Do Bronx.’