Justin Gaethje Stands Up for Ilia Topuria: 'He Didn't Quit on the Stool'

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

Despite many fans and fighters believing Topuria gave up on the stool, Gaethje disagrees. On the podcast One Night with Steiny, Gaethje explained that the decision was made solely by Topuria's corner, who acted to protect their fighter because his body was too damaged to continue.

"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 stated.

What’s Next? A Possible Rematch or Another Challenger?

Talk about a rematch between Gaethje and Topuria has surfaced, but it might not be immediate. Another contender, Arman Tsarukyan, appears to have a stronger claim to a title shot given his six-fight winning streak compared to Topuria's recent loss.

The UFC often favors the most high-profile matchups, so if they believe a Gaethje-Topuria rematch would generate the biggest buzz, it could happen before Tsarukyan gets his shot. Otherwise, Tsarukyan might have to wait longer for a chance at the belt.

Before anything else, though, Gaethje must decide whether he will continue fighting. Despite winning, he absorbed significant damage in the fight against Topuria and has yet to announce if he plans to retire or fight again. The UFC is allowing him time to make this choice.

• Event: UFC Freedom 250 (June)
• Result: Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria via fourth-round TKO
• Stoppage Reason: Corner threw in the towel due to Topuria's accumulated damage
• Topuria’s Status: Did not quit; corner stopped fight for protection
• Potential Next Opponent for Gaethje: Possibly Ilia Topuria (rematch) or Arman Tsarukyan
• Tsarukyan’s Record: Six consecutive wins