Justin Gaethje Stands Up for Ilia Topuria After UFC Freedom 250 Bout
UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje spoke out in defense of his recent opponent Ilia Topuria, emphasizing that Topuria didn’t quit during their fight at UFC Freedom 250. The match ended in June with Gaethje winning by a fourth-round TKO after Topuria’s corner stopped the fight.
Despite some fans and fighters suggesting Topuria gave up on the stool, Gaethje disagrees with that view. He explained that it was Topuria’s corner who made the decision to stop the fight to protect their fighter from further harm.
“He didn’t quit on the stool, his body was too compromised to continue fighting. He didn’t make the call, his coaches made the call because they’re there to protect him. My coaches are in my corner to protect me in those times,” Gaethje said during an appearance on the One Night with Steiny podcast.
Potential Rematch and Future Fights
The question now is whether Gaethje and Topuria will meet again inside the Octagon. Although Arman Tsarukyan seems a more logical contender due to his six-fight winning streak, the UFC often prioritizes the biggest matchups. If the promotion views a rematch between Gaethje and Topuria as the most compelling fight in the lightweight division, it could happen before Tsarukyan gets his title shot.
Gaethje himself has yet to decide if he will continue fighting or retire. The damage he sustained in the Topuria fight, despite his victory, may influence his choice. The UFC is allowing Gaethje time to make that decision.
Fight Details
- Event: UFC Freedom 250
- Date: June 2026
- Result: Justin Gaethje wins via fourth-round TKO
- Stop Reason: Topuria’s corner threw in the towel due to accumulated damage
