Justin Gaethje earns a Best Fighter ESPY nomination after his recent title win. On June 25, 2026, The Highlight was announced as one of four combat sports athletes nominated for the award.
What happened?
Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria to become the undisputed lightweight champion at UFC Freedom 250. This win led to his nomination for the 2026 Fighter of the Year ESPY.
Why it matters for Justin Gaethje
The award recognizes accomplishments from July 1, 2025, through June 1, 2026. Justin Gaethje competed twice during this period, defeating Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria.
What comes next?
Voting for the award is currently underway, and the ceremony will take place on July 15, 2026, at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. Fans can watch the event live at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
Justin Gaethje is the sole representative from MMA, competing against Terence Crawford, Gabriela Fundora, and Claressa Shields. Crawford has won the award twice before, in 2018 and 2024, while Shields won it in 2023.
The other nominees have also had impressive performances during the nomination period. Gabriela Fundora defended her undisputed flyweight status twice, knocking out both opponents. Claressa Shields also fought twice, scoring two unanimous decisions.
Justin Gaethje's win against Ilia Topuria was a significant upset, and his nomination for the Best Fighter award is well-deserved. The award ceremony will be an exciting event, with fans eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winner.
The UFC has had several fighters win the Best Fighter award in the past. Daniel Cormier won the award in 2019, Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2021, and Charles Oliveira in 2022. Jon Jones won the award in 2023, and Sean O'Malley in 2024.
Justin Gaethje's nomination is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. He will be competing against tough opponents, but his recent win has shown that he has what it takes to be a champion.
The 2026 ESPY awards will be a highly anticipated event, with many exciting nominees and categories. Justin Gaethje's nomination for Best Fighter is just one of the many exciting storylines leading up to the ceremony.
The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC, and fans can also stream it on the ESPN app. The event will take place on July 15, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET, and fans won't want to miss it.
Justin Gaethje's fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winner, and they are hopeful that he will take home the award. With his recent win and nomination, The Highlight is certainly a strong contender for the Best Fighter award.