Justin Gaethje Clarifies Ilia Topuria Stoppage at UFC White House

Justin Gaethje is clarifying how his championship bout against Ilia Topuria concluded at UFC White House. Gaethje claimed the undisputed UFC lightweight championship after the bout was waved off at the conclusion of Round 4, capping off one of the biggest upsets in UFC title fight history. While some narratives suggested Topuria gave up, Gaethje pushed back on that claim during an interview with Steiny, stating that Topuria did not quit on his stool.

According to Gaethje, Topuria's body was simply too compromised to continue, leading the corner to step in. Gaethje explained that Topuria did not make the decision himself, but rather his coaches made the call to protect him, just as Gaethje expects his own corner to do in similar circumstances.

Following the defeat, the former two-division champion alleged that Gaethje had loaded gloves prior to their bout on the South Lawn. Gaethje brushed off the accusations, noting that while the current internet culture is driven by clickbait and engagement farming, he understands it is simply part of the modern media landscape.

While Topuria and others have called for an immediate rematch, Gaethje has yet to decide on his next move. However, the champion acknowledged that Arman Tsarukyan has made a strong case for the next title shot following an impressive finish, putting Tsarukyan at the forefront of the division's title picture.