Ilia Topuria expected to return to UFC in 2–3 months after injuries

Ilia Topuria (17‑1) suffered two orbital fractures and a nasal septum fracture in his June 14 loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Casa Blanca. The injuries did not require surgery. His Cuban‑American trainer Jesús Gallo said medical clearance is expected in 6–8 weeks, with full training and sparring likely after 2–3 months. A comeback fight could be scheduled as early as December or January, though a later date in 2027 is also possible.

UFC commentator and podcaster Joe Rogan praised Topuria after the bout, saying, "I think he'll come back better than ever" and noting that "sometimes a loss is one of the most important things a fighter can experience".