Justin Gaethje breaks silence on potential rematch with Michael Chandler and confirms UFC fight date

Michael Chandler called out Justin Gaethje shortly after his unanimous decision loss to Charles Oliveira at UFC 309.

Despite losing four of his last five fights, the 38-year-old will always give a good account of himself when he takes on his division's elite operators.

And sure enough, his rematch against Charles Oliveira last Saturday was no exception, as Michael Chandler put in a valiant performance but ultimately fell short.

But after expressing his desire to roll the dice in another rematch against Justin Gaethje, 'Iron' didn't get the response he may have been hoping for.

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Justin Gaethje claims he would rather meet Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier than Michael Chandler

Gaethje and Chandler locked horns in 2021, when he claimed a unanimous decision victory in three rounds after a more measured performance on 'The Highlight'.

And so there is seemingly little reason for the former lightweight champion to set up a second meeting with the fan-friendly fighter.

Instead, Gaethje has shown more interest in rematching three other opponents, while also naming a fighter he has yet to face.

The 36-year-old has primarily welcomed a second meeting with Oliveira, who submitted the American in the first round of their 2021 clash.

Likewise, Gaethje has shown a willingness to set the record straight in a trilogy with Dustin Poirier, as the score currently stands at 1-1.

Still, there are two potential options that could whet the veteran campaigner's appetite.

“I'm more interested in a rematch with Oliveira… or Poirier,” Gaethje told Helen Yee Sports. 'But I prefer something new. I think Dan Hooker [would be a good matchup].

“I know [Max] Holloway returns [to lightweight] – I would love that rematch. [With me] are arranged [number three at lightweight]I think there are many options. I told you [The UFC] I want to fight in March.”

Could Justin Gaethje face Dan Hooker or Max Holloway in March?

Apparently a clash between Gaethje and Hooker makes perfect sense, as 'The Hangman' has already teased the possibility of returning to the octagon in March.

At the same time, a rematch with Max Holloway would certainly capture the imagination of MMA fans.

The pair faced off in a five-round barnburner earlier this year, with Holloway ultimately emerging victorious after scoring one of the most stunning knockouts of all time.

And yet, Gaethje would undoubtedly like to get another shot at the BMF title, especially with 'Blessed' coming off a knockout loss to UFC featherweight king Ilia Topuria.

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