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Justin Gaethje nominated for Best Fighter at 2026 ESPY awards

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 6:36 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Justin Gaethje nominated for Best Fighter at 2026 ESPY awards
Summary

Justin Gaethje has been nominated for the Best Fighter award at the 2026 ESPY awards following a successful run that included three consecutive victories, culminating in a title win against Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 in Washington, DC. The nomination recognizes Gaethje's achievements, particularly his recent triumphs in the octagon. Competing for the award alongside Gaethje are boxers Claressa Shields, Gabriela Fundora, and Terence Crawford. The ESPY awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on July 15 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

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By the Numbers
  • •Gaethje won three straight fights to secure nomination.
  • •He stopped Ilia Topuria to become UFC lightweight champion.
  • •The 2026 ESPY awards will air on July 15.
  • •Gaethje's main competition includes top boxers like Terence Crawford.
  • •Previous winners of the award include notable fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Latest Updates
  • 6:36 PMYahoo Sports — UFC champ Justin Gaethje nominated for ‘Best Fighter’ at 2026 ESPY awards
What they're saying
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Justin Gaethje has won three straight fights and stopped Ilia Topuria to become UFC lightweight champion atop the UFC White House event earlier this month in Washington, DC. That incredible run helped earn “The Highlight” a nomination for “Best Fighter” at the upcoming 2026 ESPY awards. ESPY = Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly. The 37 […]

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