🚨BREAKING: Justin Gaethje is expected to return at UFC 337 in Arizona on February 27, 2027, with Arman Tsarukyan reportedly expected to be his opponent. Despite recent retirement speculation, “The Highlight” is expected to fight again, with his home state potentially hosting his next appearance inside the Octagon. Gaethje has been weighing his future, but a return to competition could be on the horizon, with a potential matchup against Arman offering a major challenge. A return in Arizona would make it even more special. Born in Tucson, Gaethje could have the chance to fight in front of his home crowd. The Highlight might not be done yet 👀
Justin Gaethje is reportedly expected to return at UFC 337 in Arizona on February 27, 2027, with Arman Tsarukyan said to be the opponent. The pairing has not been officially confirmed.
The report comes after recent speculation that Gaethje might retire. Instead, he is now expected to fight again, and the card would take place in his home state. Gaethje was born in Tucson, so an Arizona date would put him in front of a home crowd.
Gaethje, 37, is the reigning lightweight champion with a 28-5 record. He is coming off a run of wins in his three most recent recorded fights, including a fourth-round KO/TKO of Ilia Topuria in a title fight at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, 2026. Before that, he beat Paddy Pimblett by unanimous decision over five rounds at UFC 324 on January 24, 2026. The American fights out of Genesis Training Center and lands 6.48 significant strikes per minute at 58 percent accuracy.
Tsarukyan, 30, is ranked second at lightweight and holds a 24-3 record. The Russian fighter, who trains at American Top Team, is on a strong run of his own. His most recent recorded fight was a first-round KO/TKO of Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on September 19, 2026, and he submitted Dan Hooker in the second round before that. He also beat Charles Oliveira by split decision at UFC 300.
Why it matters
- Style contrast: Tsarukyan averages 3.25 takedowns per 15 minutes, while Gaethje averages 0.33. Gaethje out-lands Tsarukyan 6.48 to 3.78 in significant strikes per minute, with a 58 to 49 percent edge in accuracy.
- Physical gap: Tsarukyan is seven years younger. Gaethje stands three inches taller, at 180 cm to 170 cm, but Tsarukyan has a 183 cm reach to Gaethje's 178 cm.
- Division stakes: Gaethje holds the lightweight title and Tsarukyan sits at number two in the rankings. If the matchup happens as described, it would be a significant test for the champion.
Neither the UFC nor the fighters have confirmed the bout or the date.
