Justin Gaethje Rejects Ilia Topuria Rematch After 18-0 Run Ends at UFC Freedom 250
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jun 21
Justin Gaethje Rejects Ilia Topuria Rematch After 18-0 Run Ends at UFC Freedom 250
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jun 21
Summary
Joe Rogan's podcast carried Gaethje's clearest stance yet: the new lightweight champion said Topuria will not get an immediate title rematch after their White House South Lawn fight.
Gaethje argued the former champion forfeited that chance by "quitting on the stool," after Topuria's corner stopped the bout before Round 5 following heavy damage.
Topuria later said he lost vision in one eye during the fight, which ended his first 18-fight unbeaten run and cost him the lightweight belt.
Paddy Pimblett emerged as Gaethje's suggested next opponent for Topuria, reviving a rivalry that dates to their 2022 altercation.
At 37, Gaethje also said he is not planning to retire, signaling he expects to keep shaping the lightweight title picture after winning his first undisputed UFC crown.