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Justin Gaethje dismisses immediate Ilia Topuria rematch
Following his TKO victory over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 to claim the lightweight title, Justin Gaethje and his management have dismissed the possibility of an immediate rematch. Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, stated that Topuria ‘doesn't call the shots’ and argued that Gaethje has nothing to gain from a second fight so soon, suggesting Topuria should secure another win first.
Gaethje has identified Arman Tsarukyan as the next in line for a title defense, especially following Tsarukyan’s recent knockout victory at UFC 331. Gaethje, who is 37 and recovering from hand injuries, noted that he is weighing his future and potential retirement, stating, ‘I do not feel like I have anything left to prove.’
Topuria, who suffered various injuries including orbital fractures and vision loss during the bout, is reportedly aiming for a return to the octagon in early 2027. He has previously questioned the legitimacy of Gaethje’s performance, alleging glove tampering, a claim that Abdelaziz dismissed by noting the presence of multiple athletic commissions during the fight.
Entities
Ali Abdelaziz · Arman Tsarukyan · Ilia Topuria · Justin Gaethje · Merab Dvalishvili · UFC
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Justin Gaethje is likely to win a rematch against Ilia Topuria.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Ilia Topuria's team is seeking a rematch against the current champion. www.upday.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Justin Gaethje will not fight Ilia Topuria in an immediate rematch.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Merab Dvalishvili believes Ilia Topuria deserves a rematch against Justin Gaethje.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Justin Gaethje considers Ilia Topuria to be one of the best fighters in the world. www.upday.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Ilia Topuria suffered orbital fractures, a nasal septum injury, a foot fracture, and vision loss during his fight with Gaethje. www.upday.com