Early Life and Education of Justin Gaethje: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 8, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Justin Gaethje. From birth to education, explore key events.

Justin Gaethje is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the UFC's Lightweight division. Active since 2011, he is a former UFC Interim Lightweight Champion and BMF Champion, securing the latter title at UFC 291. He is currently ranked #3 in the UFC lightweight rankings as of April 16, 2024.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1970: Larry Wagner's All-American Status

In 1970, Larry Wagner earned Division I All-American status as a wrestler, a feat that wouldn't be repeated by another Northern Colorado wrestler until Justin Gaethje in 2010.

November 14, 1988: Justin Gaethje's Birth

On November 14, 1988, Justin Ray Gaethje was born. He is an American professional mixed martial artist currently competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

Others born on this day/year

2009: NCAA Division I 157 lb Championship

In 2009, during his sophomore season, Justin Gaethje qualified for the NCAA Division I 157 lb Championship, posting a 0–2 record. He ended the season with a 14–4 record and was named to the Western Wrestling All-Conference First Team.

2010: NCAA Division I 157 lb Championship

In 2010, Justin Gaethje went 5–2 at the NCAA Division I 157 lb Championship, earning 7th place and All-American status, becoming the first Northern Colorado wrestler to achieve this since 1970.

2011: NCAA Division I 149 lb Championship

In 2011, during his senior year, Justin Gaethje competed in the NCAA Division I 149 lb Championship, posting a 1–2 record to end the season with a 17–8 record.

2016: Underwent photorefractive keratectomy

In 2016, Justin Gaethje underwent a photorefractive keratectomy to correct his eyesight, which was previously very poor. Dan Hardy noted that before the surgery, Gaethje's vision was so bad that he had to be in physical contact with his opponent to know what he was hitting.

September 2019: Father's Retirement

In September 2019, Justin Gaethje's father, Ray, retired as a copper miner after 36 years at the Morenci mine.

2020: Gaethje's mining experience

In 2020, Justin Gaethje recalled his summer working at the Morenci mine when he was 18 and how his coworkers didn't think he'd make it through college which motivated him.