Morning Report: Justin Gaethje’s manager proposes Islam Makhachev as final fight

Key Points:

• Justin Gaethje, at 37, recently became the undisputed UFC lightweight champion by defeating Ilia Topuria, but has not announced his next fight or retirement plans.
• Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, suggests Gaethje should seek the biggest payday possible, ideally a superfight against welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, even if it means vacating the lightweight title.
• Abdelaziz, who manages both Gaethje and Makhachev, believes this matchup would be the most lucrative and legacy-defining fight for Gaethje, dismissing other potential opponents like Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway.
• Abdelaziz praises Gaethje as possibly the greatest American UFC fighter, highlighting admiration from figures like former President Donald Trump and contrasting him favorably against other legends such as Jon Jones.
• The decision on Gaethje’s next fight ultimately rests with him and his coaching staff, with multiple options including a rematch with Max Holloway or a fight against Islam Makhachev.