May 21, 2025 – The UFC lightweight division is heating up with drama as Justin Gaethje expresses outrage over the announcement that Charles Oliveira will face featherweight champ Ilia Topuria for a title shot. Gaethje, known for his explosive fighting style, feels blatantly overlooked by the UFC brass, believing his recent performances warranted the opportunity. Sources close to “The Highlight” reveal he’s livid, and alongside his manager, Gaethje is now pushing for a concrete guarantee that he’ll be next in line for a title fight.
Oliveira, the former lightweight king, earned the shot after a string of impressive victories, but Gaethje argues his own knockout-heavy record, including his thrilling BMF title win, makes him the rightful contender. “I’ve put it all on the line every fight. To be skipped like this? It’s a slap in the face,” Gaethje reportedly told his team. His camp is now in talks with UFC officials, demanding clarity on his path to the belt.
Fans are divided, with some backing Oliveira’s technical mastery, while others believe Gaethje’s fan-favorite brawls deserve priority. The situation adds fuel to an already stacked 2025 UFC calendar, with Topuria preparing to defend his featherweight title against Oliveira in a cross-division clash. Will Gaethje secure his shot, or will he need to prove himself again? One thing’s certain: the lightweight division is a powder keg ready to explode!