Published 89 days ago
Gaethje dominated the Octagon in 2025, but the ESPY slipped through his fingers to rival Crawford
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Justin Gaethje dominated 2025 by becoming the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, but he did not win the ESPY for Best Fighter, which went to Terence Crawford.
To remember:
- Justin Gaethje crowned undisputed UFC lightweight champion in 2025.
- Despite his exceptional performances, he did not win the ESPY for Best Fighter.
- The 2025 ESPY was awarded to Terence Crawford, his rival in the world of combat sports.
The year 2025 will go down in MMA history as the year of Justin Gaethje. The American fighter, known for his explosive style and spectacular knockouts, not only confirmed his dominance in the UFC lightweight division but did so with unquestionable authority. After a string of impressive victories, Gaethje claimed the undisputed title, a feat that marked the history of the sport. Yet, despite this crowning achievement, another name shone at the 2025 ESPY Awards: that of Terence Crawford, the legendary boxer, who took home the title of Best Fighter.
An Undisputed Reign in the UFC
Gaethje delivered remarkable performances throughout the year. His fights, often described as "spectacles," captivated fans worldwide. In March 2025, he defeated Islam Makhachev in an epic showdown, solidifying his place at the top of the division. Then, in September, he successfully defended his title against the formidable Charles Oliveira, a feared opponent for his jiu-jitsu skills. These victories not only bolstered his reputation but also drew a new wave of supporters to MMA. Yet, despite this overwhelming dominance, the ESPYs chose to honor another athlete.
The 2025 ESPY: Crawford Steals the Show
The ESPY Awards, which recognize exceptional performances in sports, had a surprise in store for MMA fans. While Gaethje was the favorite for Best Fighter, it was ultimately Terence Crawford who took the crown. The boxer, already adorned with multiple world titles, impressed with his precision and ring IQ. Some observers noted that the ESPY criteria, often influenced by media popularity, may have worked in his favor. Gaethje, though less media-covered than Crawford, continued to prove that MMA deserves a prominent place in the global sports landscape.
A Debate Opens: Who Truly Deserved the ESPY?
The ESPY decision sparked mixed reactions. Some MMA fans expressed disappointment, arguing that Gaethje, with his journey and performances, fully deserved this recognition. Others, however, praised Crawford’s selection, noting that boxing remains an extremely popular sport in the United States. This debate highlights a recurring question: do the ESPYs, designed to celebrate athletes across all disciplines, truly reflect excellence in sports as varied as boxing and MMA? One thing is certain: Gaethje, with his charisma and talent, continues to make his mark on combat sports history.