Ali Abdel-Aziz, manager for former UFC interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, has expressed his client`s significant dissatisfaction over not being granted a shot at the title.
The vacant lightweight title is set to be contested by Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas, USA.
Abdel-Aziz argued that Gaethje is the rightful next challenger. He highlighted Gaethje`s record of three wins in his last four bouts and claimed he has “saved the UFC” on two occasions by stepping up when needed.
“Justin Gaethje should fight the winner. He has won three out of his last four fights, twice saving the UFC. When he was needed, he was there. This guy has done a lot for the sport. If anyone says he doesn’t deserve a title shot…” Abdel-Aziz stated.
According to Abdel-Aziz, Gaethje holds a strong conviction on the matter.
“If I do not fight for the title, I will just end my career,” Gaethje reportedly told his manager. Abdel-Aziz added that Gaethje “is a very principled person” and “takes this very seriously.”
