Ilia Topuria ready for UFC return as Dana White eyes rematch

UFC President Dana White has announced that Ilia Topuria is ready to return to competition following his first professional defeat at UFC Freedom 250. Topuria, who suffered significant facial injuries including broken orbital bones and a broken nose during his loss to lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, is being considered for two primary matchups: a rematch against Gaethje or a bout against Paddy Pimblett.

Justin Gaethje, reflecting on his victory, attributed his success to exploiting Topuria’s predictable footwork rhythm and noted that Topuria made “emotional mistakes” in his preparation. Gaethje also revealed that he has not yet spent his title-winning purse, contrasting his current financial discipline with his early career struggles.

While Topuria has shared messages of hope and resilience with his fans in Georgia and Spain, no official fight has been booked. White noted that both potential opponents present great opportunities for the promotion, though fan sentiment regarding an immediate rematch with Gaethje remains divided.