Justin Gaethje willing to sit out for UFC title shot, explains why he prefers not to fight Max Holloway

Justin Gaethje insists on pursuing only a UFC lightweight title shot for his next fight.

Gaethje (25-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC) recently achieved consecutive victories over Rafael Fiziev, and most notably a stunning knockout of Dustin Poirier to be crowned the “BMF” champion at UFC 291.

Following lightweight champion Islam Makhachev’s (25-1 MMA, 14-1 UFC) retention of his title in a recent match against Alexander Volkanovski, Gaethje expressed his willingness to wait for his turn if the UFC arranges the initially planned Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira rematch.

Speaking to ESPN, Gaethje stated, “If they want to put Oliveira in there, then I fight (the winner) in September. Who do I fight? There’s no one. I did what I had to do. I fought No. 7, fought No. 2, I don’t know what else I need to do. I’ll definitely wait. I have no issues waiting. As I get older, I’ll continue building strength, working on my cardio, and refining my skills. So I’ll take as much time as they give me and be even more prepared.”

While Gaethje disregarded the idea of facing Conor McGregor, he did consider Max Holloway (25-7 MMA, 21-7 UFC) as a potential opponent for his “BMF” title defense. However, Gaethje explained his hesitation: “I don’t ever want to fight Holloway. I don’t know, I just don’t ever – I don’t want to punch him. I just don’t. It’s not necessary. … I like him too much. I like him. He’s a good dude. I don’t know him personally, but I’m a fan of his. I don’t prefer to punch him. But if I have to, I would, I guess.”

Holloway recently called out Gaethje on social media.

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie