Justin Gaethje eyeing 2023 return to the octagon

UFC light-weight contender Justin Gaethje fought for the title in Might, however got here brief in opposition to former champion Charles Oliveira within the UFC 274 primary occasion.

‘The Spotlight’ has been recovering from nostril surgical procedure and the battle in opposition to Oliveira was his solely battle in 2022. Again within the health club coaching, Gaethje expects to be again contained in the octagon doubtlessly early subsequent yr.

“I informed them subsequent yr,” Gaethje mentioned to MMAFighting. “I’m beginning to work out now. I’m again in a daily routine.”

Gaethje is ranked No. 3 within the UFC 155-pound division. There are a few pivotal fights within the weight class arising. Former champion Oliveira takes on No. 4-ranked Islam Makhachev for the vacant title on October 22. No. 2 ranked Dustin Poirier and No. 5 ranked Michael Chandler battle on November 12.

Gaethje expects to face one of many 4 fighters competing over the following month in these high-stakes matches in his subsequent octagon look.

“The physique is resilient, however you need to give it time,” Gaethje mentioned. “I wished to take a break. It was good that I acquired to get my nostril mounted. They’ve (Oliveira and Makhachev) acquired to battle for the title. Somebody’s acquired to face the loser. Chandler and Poirier are going to battle. Somebody’s acquired to battle the winner. I’ll be prepared subsequent yr.”

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