Justin Gaethje doesn’t see himself giving Ilia Topuria an immediate rematch after what transpired at UFC Freedom 250.
Gaethje and Topuria collided on the White House lawn for the distinction of being called the undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion. Topuria’s face was a mess early on thanks to Gaethje’s striking, and the damage only got worse as the fight progress. “El Matador’s” broken orbital bone was enough that he didn’t get off his stool for the final round, and Gaethje is now the unified UFC Lightweight Champion for the first time in his career.
During an appearance on the “JRE MMA Show,” Gaethje made it clear that he doesn’t think Topuria should get an immediate rematch with how emphatic the ending of their fight was (via MMAFighting).
“I can’t say that I have a name,” Gaethje admitted. “[Ilia] doesn’t get a rematch. He can try but he doesn’t get one. He quit on the stool, I stopped him twice, what else do I have to f*cking do?
“His next challenge can’t be me. He needs to fight Paddy or someone like that.”
While Gaethje wouldn’t commit to his fighting future at the conclusion of UFC Freedom 250, he is now leaning towards sticking around. He told Joe Rogan that it doesn’t feel natural for him to walk away from prizefighting at this time. If Gaethje ultimately does stick around, then the general consensus would be that Arman Tsarukyan should be the No. 1 contender. Whether or not the UFC brass will give Tsarukyan that opportunity next remains to be seen.
As for Topuria, he has been handed a six-month medical suspension. He can return sooner if he is cleared by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, but he must complete a mandatory 60-day rest period.
Do you agree with Justin Gaethje’s stance on not giving Ilia Topuria an immediate rematch given how the UFC Freedom 250 main event played out? Sound off in the comments below.