“That’s Pretty Wacky” Dana White Fires Back at Justin Gaethje’s Retirement Threat Over Title Shot
In the days leading up to UFC 317, held on June 28, 2025, UFC President Dana White sparked debate with his blunt response to Justin Gaethje’s demand for a lightweight title shot.
The former interim champion and BMF titleholder reportedly told the UFC he would consider retirement if not granted the next title opportunity.
White’s response was clear — and harsh.
Dana White Responds: “That’s Pretty Wacky”
At a press event before UFC 317, Dana White didn’t hold back:
“If you’re thinking about retirement, then you should probably retire,” he said.
“We love Justin Gaethje, and he did step up. But to say, ‘Unless you give me a title shot, I’m retiring,’ that’s pretty wacky.”
White emphasized that while Gaethje is a fan favorite, using retirement as leverage doesn’t sit well with the UFC brass.
UFC 317 Shakes Up Lightweight Rankings
UFC 317’s main event saw Ilia Topuria knock out Charles Oliveira in the first round, becoming the new UFC lightweight champion.
It was a stunning performance that changed the direction of the division overnight.
While many expected Islam Makhachev to be next, it’s now clear that Arman Tsarukyan is the likely frontrunner for the next title shot.
There is no official announcement yet, but insiders believe Topuria vs. Arman is close to being finalized.
What About Gaethje and Paddy?
Despite the faceoff between Topuria and Pimblett, Dana White quickly shut it down, calling it unauthorized and saying it “should never have happened.”
As for Gaethje, White hinted that he would need to fight again. A matchup against Paddy Pimblett or Arman Tsarukyan could be on the table — but either way, retirement talk won’t speed things up.
UFC 317: More Than Just One Fight
The event delivered across the board. Beneil Dariush earned a comeback win over Renato Moicano after two knockout losses.
In the flyweight division, Alexandre Pantoja defended his belt and broke Demetrious Johnson’s UFC records for most wins and finishes at 125.
Read More About 317:
- Topuria shocks Oliveira with first-round KO, faces off with Pimblett
- Dana White slams UFC 317 faceoff between Topuria and Paddy
- 23-year-old delivers dominant performance, earns UFC 317 title shot
- UFC veteran edges out decision win
- Alexandre Pantoja surpasses Demetrious Johnson
What Comes Next?
As UFC 317 resets the landscape, Gaethje’s place in the title conversation remains uncertain. But one thing is clear — the UFC is moving full speed ahead, and retirement threats may not slow it down.
📊 Stay updated with official news and rankings at UFC.com.
