UFC

Justin “The Highlight”Gaethje

UFC28-5-0

Division
Lightweight
Stance
Orthodox
Height
5' 11"
Weight
155 lbs.
Reach
70"
Nationality
Safford, United States
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Fighter metrics

Wins by KO
19
Wins by submission
1
Wins by decision
3

Striking accuracy

60%

861 landed · 1,429 attempted

Takedown accuracy

25%

Recent fight form

Latest 5 verified results in our archive · 2023-07-29 to 2026-06-14

Wins

4 / 5

Losses

1 / 5

Historical results, not a prediction. See opponents and methods in fight history below.

Fight history

Justin Gaethje Bio

Justin Gaethje is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC lightweight division. As of September 12, 2026, he is listed by the UFC as an active lightweight title holder. Born on November 14, 1988, in Tucson, Arizona, Gaethje stands 5 feet 11 inches tall and trains at Genesis Training Center. He made his UFC debut on July 8, 2017, after beginning his professional career in 2011.

Before entering mixed martial arts, Gaethje established himself as a collegiate wrestler at the University of Northern Colorado. Competing at 157 pounds, he became the program’s first NCAA Division I All-American since its return to Division I competition, earning that distinction at the 2010 NCAA Championships. He was also a three-time NCAA qualifier and was inducted into the University of Northern Colorado Athletics Hall of Fame in 2020.

Gaethje is known for an aggressive, pressure-heavy style built around powerful striking, damaging leg kicks and a willingness to compete at close range. His wrestling background remains an important part of his skill set, while his professional identity has been shaped by high-profile UFC bouts and championship milestones. In 2026, he won the interim UFC lightweight title in January and captured undisputed UFC lightweight gold by defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14.

Record
28-5-0
Division
Lightweight
Stance
Orthodox
Height
5' 11"
Weight
155 lbs.
Reach
70"
Leg reach
40.00
Gym / team
Genesis Training Center
Nationality
Safford, United States
Residence
Arvada, California
Fighting out of
Arvada, Colorado, United States
Birth date
Nov 14, 1988 (age 37)
Age
37
Birthplace
, ,
Country
United States

Justin Gaethje Questions & Answers

What division does Justin Gaethje compete in?

Justin Gaethje competes in the UFC lightweight division.

When did Justin Gaethje make his UFC debut?

Justin Gaethje made his UFC debut on July 8, 2017.

What is Justin Gaethje's height?

Justin Gaethje is listed at 5 feet 11 inches tall.

When and where was Justin Gaethje born?

Justin Gaethje was born on November 14, 1988, in Tucson, Arizona.

What did Justin Gaethje accomplish in college wrestling?

At the University of Northern Colorado, Justin Gaethje became the program's first NCAA Division I All-American since its return to Division I competition and was a three-time NCAA qualifier.

What is Justin Gaethje's fighting style?

Justin Gaethje is known for aggressive, pressure-heavy striking, powerful leg kicks and a high-tempo style supported by his collegiate wrestling background.

What title milestone did Justin Gaethje reach in 2026?

Justin Gaethje won the interim UFC lightweight title in January 2026 and then captured the undisputed UFC lightweight championship on June 14, 2026.