Unbelievable but true: Justin Gaethje, one of the most explosive fighters in the UFC, is trading his gloves for a driver to take on the greens! The lightweight champion will compete in the Barstool Sports Internet Invitational, a hybrid tournament blending golf, sports, and entertainment, scheduled for late October at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri. An initiative sure to captivate sports and pop culture fans alike.
A New Kind of Challenge for the "High Volume Striker"
Gaethje, known for his spectacular knockouts in the octagon, will have to adapt his game to a sport where precision is key. This tournament, featuring 64 participants split into teams, will pit professional golfers against athletes from other disciplines, as well as influencers. Among the names set to thrill the crowds: Jason Williams (former NBA player) and Jon Gruden (NFL legend), alongside seasoned golfers like Brad Dalke and Francis Ellis, winners of the 2025 edition.
Between Rivalry and a Passion for Golf
This isn’t Gaethje’s first foray onto a golf course. Last July, he already took part in a tournament organized by his rival Max Holloway, where he tested his skills against experienced golfers. He shared the experience with humor on his YouTube channel, revealing his love for the game. This time, the stakes are higher: an official tournament where every shot counts, and the UFC champion will need to keep his cool.
An Event Not to Be Missed
The Internet Invitational is more than just a golf tournament—it’s a spectacle blending sports competition and entertainment. With personalities like Gruden or Williams, fans can expect moments that are as quirky as they are unforgettable. And Gaethje, with his usual charisma and energy, might just steal the show from the professional golfers!
Between UFC fights, Gaethje once again proves he loves stepping off the beaten path. This challenge on the greens could well become a classic, and fans can’t wait to see how the champion fares against opponents very different from his usual octagon rivals.