Justin Gaethje Stands by Ilia Topuria After UFC Freedom 250 Stoppage

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje spoke out in defense of his recent opponent, Ilia Topuria, insisting that Topuria did not quit during their bout at UFC Freedom 250. The fight ended in June with Gaethje earning a fourth-round TKO victory after Topuria's corner threw in the towel due to the damage he had taken.

Many fans and fighters have questioned whether Topuria gave up on the stool, but Gaethje disagrees. On the One Night with Steiny podcast, he clarified that it was Topuria's team who decided to stop the fight, not Topuria himself.

"He didn’t quit on the stool, his body was too compromised to continue fighting. He didn’t make the call, his coaches made the call because they’re there to protect him. My coaches are in my corner to protect me in those times," Gaethje explained.

What’s Next: Potential Rematch or Different Challenger?

The possibility of a rematch between Gaethje and Topuria is on the table, but there are other contenders to consider. Arman Tsarukyan currently boasts six consecutive wins and might be more deserving of a title shot than Topuria, who just suffered this loss.

The UFC tends to prioritize high-profile fights, so if the promotion views a Gaethje-Topuria rematch as the biggest draw in the lightweight division, it could happen regardless of Tsarukyan's streak. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan may need to wait for his chance at the belt.

That said, Gaethje hasn’t decided if he will continue fighting or retire. Despite the win, he sustained significant damage in the Topuria fight. The UFC is giving him time to decide whether to return for another fight or step away from the sport.