Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria embroiled in glove tampering controversy

Controversy has erupted in the UFC lightweight division following Ilia Topuria’s recent medical clearance to return to competition. After losing his title to Justin Gaethje via fourth-round TKO at UFC Freedom 250, Topuria alleged that Gaethje had tampered with his gloves, claiming there was ‘something weird’ inside them. These accusations have been dismissed by UFC CEO Dana White and Gaethje, while regulator inspections previously indicated the gloves were clean.

Various fighters and experts have weighed in on the dispute. Paddy Pimblett mocked Topuria, calling him a ‘sore loser’ for the allegations. Alexander Volkanovski noted seeing something unusual during the fight but questioned how it could have bypassed official inspections. Meanwhile, Israel Adesanya advised Topuria against an immediate rematch, suggesting he should secure another win first to rebuild momentum.

Regarding the future of the division, Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, stated that a rematch between Gaethje and Topuria is unlikely to happen next, asserting that Gaethje ‘has his number.’ This stance shifts focus toward Arman Tsarukyan, who is increasingly viewed as the next legitimate title contender following his knockout victory over Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331.