As UFC fans gear up for Justin Gaethje’s return to the octagon at UFC 313, his striking tattoos remain a topic of conversation. Known for his aggressive fighting style, Gaethje’s body art has become just as iconic as his battles inside the cage.
Among his most noticeable tattoos is the “Bad Boy” logo inked on his left ribs. While the design might raise eyebrows among tattoo artists, it has been embraced by UFC fans as a signature element of Gaethje’s persona. The reason behind the tattoo remains a bit of a mystery—perhaps it’s a reflection of his rebellious nature or simply a teenage decision that stuck with him over the years, as removing it would be both expensive and time-consuming.
Gaethje also sports a tattoo of eyes on his ribs, a design some have criticized as botched, but one that undeniably draws attention. After all, the essence of body art is to stand out and make a statement, and Gaethje’s ink certainly accomplishes that. On the right side of his ribs, he carries a more philosophical tattoo—a battle between good and evil, symbolized by an angel and a horned figure. Accompanying the imagery are the words “Before” and “Dishonour,” likely referencing the famous motto “Death Before Dishonor.”
In addition to these, Gaethje has a cross tattoo on his shoulder, signifying his Christian faith, and his last name, “GAETHJE,” proudly displayed across his back—emphasizing his personal legacy.
While Gaethje has never publicly delved into the meanings behind his tattoos, they have become synonymous with his identity, adding to the mystique surrounding his persona. Some may even find a few of them rather cool.
However, Gaethje’s tattoos are not the only memorable ones in the UFC. Conor McGregor, known for his larger-than-life persona, boasts a striking chest piece featuring a crowned gorilla devouring a heart, inspired by the logo of his gym, The Straight Blast Gym in Dublin. On his forearm, McGregor carries the phrase “slow is smooth, smooth is fast,” a mantra that underscores the importance of precision and efficiency, borrowed from elite military units.
Brock Lesnar, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion, has a sword tattoo across his chest, symbolizing the immense pressure he felt during a turbulent period of his life. Meanwhile, Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria sports a fierce tiger tattoo across his chest, representing strength and resilience, with his own face subtly integrated into the design—though the meaning remains a mystery, as Topuria has yet to explain the significance.
These tattoos, whether bold, intricate, or simple, tell a unique story about each fighter, adding another layer to their legacy inside and outside the octagon.
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