Justin Gaethje is a potential opponent for Dustin Poirier, who is open to returning to the UFC for select high-profile fights.
What's Next for Poirier?
Poirier confirmed he remains under UFC contract and didn’t rule out another run under the promotion’s banner if the matchup makes sense.
Dustin Poirier mentioned Justin Gaethje as one of the names that could bring him back to the UFC, noting their violent rivalry “needs closure.”
The Rivalry Between Poirier and Gaethje
Their previous wars were instant classics, and a rubber match would be an easy sell for the UFC and fans alike, given their 1-1 record.
On July 6, 2026, Poirier expressed interest in revisiting one of this era’s defining rivalries, including a potential fourth fight with Conor McGregor.
Why It Matters for Justin Gaethje
A rematch between Poirier and Gaethje would blend unfinished business, massive star power, and the kind of promotional firestorm the UFC cannot ignore.
Poirier also mentioned Nate Diaz as another name that could bring him back, a matchup fans have clamored for over the years but never seen materialize inside the Octagon.
The Potential for a Big-Fight Run
By publicly putting McGregor, Diaz, and Gaethje on his shortlist, “The Diamond” has sent a clear message: if the UFC wants one more big-fight run, the door is open, and he’s already circled the names that could bring him back.
The idea of carefully chosen marquee bouts fits Poirier’s current phase, given his experience headlining multiple PPVs and carrying the lightweight division through several eras.
Nothing is signed, and Poirier stopped short of calling any return imminent, but the possibility of a rematch with Justin Gaethje is an exciting prospect for fans of the UFC.