Justin Gaethje would rather not engage in intimate relationships for the remainder of his fighting career.
Gaethje recently became a two-time interim UFC Lightweight Champion. He defeated Paddy Pimblett in the UFC 324 main event, and he has now sealed a title unification bout against the main lightweight titleholder Ilia Topuria. Gaethje has a lot on his plate, as he attempts to capture undisputed UFC gold before his career wraps up.
The last thing on “The Highlight’s” mind is finding a new love partner, which he revealed on “The Stephen A. Smith Show.”
“It’s by choice, but if I could find someone that was pleasant to be around daily then I would have a girlfriend or a wife,” Gaethje said. “I’ve just never found somebody.”
Smith then asked Gaethje if he has experienced better or worse performances inside the Octagon while in past relationship.
“Yes, I would say worse,” Gaethje responded. “Not physical, mental for sure. These girls are crazy, bro. There’s all distractions, a lot of emotions, never quiet.”
Gaethje is 37 years old and is a 32-fight veteran, but he still finds himself at the top of the heap at 155 pounds. It’s not an easy feat given how stacked the lightweight division is, but “The Highlight” has been a threat throughout his career. Gaethje has beaten the likes of Pimblett, Dustin Poirier, Michael Chandler, Tony Ferguson, Donald Cerrone, and Edson Barboza to name a few.
The general consensus within the MMA community is that Gaethje will be a sizable underdog in his bout against Topuria, who many believe is the best boxer in MMA. Still, one can’t rule out Gaethje given his durability, experience, and dangerous striking power. If “El Matador” has trouble finding a rhythm, it could lead to an upset.
What do you make of Justin Gaethje’s take on relationships as a high-level athlete? Tell us in the comment section below.