UFC Considering Justin Gaethje Vs. Ilia Topuria Rematch

The UFC is considering an immediate rematch between the current lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje (28-5), and the division’s former ruler, Ilia Topuria (17-1).

That’s according to UFC commentator Jon Anik, who said such a fight would be “enormous” despite the outcome of their first bout, which headlined the UFC Freedom 250 event. On June 14, Gaethje overcame underdog odds at The White House in Washington D.C. to brutally dominate Topuria, forcing a corner stoppage at the end of the fourth round to win by technical knockout.

Topuria sustained significant physical damage from the fight itself, including fractures to both orbital bones, a broken nose, and a broken foot. As the orbital injuries were non-displaced, the bones remained in alignment which allowed him to avoid surgery and a prolonged recovery. Though he was placed on a mandatory medical 180-day suspension, he could return to the Octagon sooner than its December 14 expiration provided he receives full clearance from a surgeon.

The recently-confirmed UFC 335 event will be held December 12, but that will prove too soon, at least, for Gaethje, who said in August that he will not fight again until 2027. “Both my hands still hurt from the fight,” he said.

Internal discussions of Gaethje-Topuria come regardless of other ranked lightweights. On September 19, for example, the No.3-ranked contender, Arman Tsarukyan fights the No.10 in the division, Mauricio Ruffy. Tsarukyan said UFC had already told him he’d get a shot at the title if he wins.

Topuria remains the No.1 in the division after Gaethje, the champion.