Ilia Topuria Trains Hard and Partner Jokes: 'He Thinks We're Gaethje'

Ilia Topuria promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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Ilia Topuria caught attention on social media by appearing in an intense training session during his preparation for UFC Casa Branca . The undisputed lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) was seen strongly pressuring his sparring partners in Miami, showing strong pace and aggressiveness in preparation for his fight against Justin Gaethje , scheduled for June 14th in Washington DC (USA).

In a video posted on social media, Topuria showed that the camp continues at a high intensity. The Georgian-Spanish fighter appeared dominating the sparring sessions, imposing constant pressure and demanding a lot from his training partners, in a preparation that already indicates the level of seriousness for his next defense.

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The intensity of the training was so great that it even led to jokes among the sparring partners. One of them commented, in a relaxed tone, that the champion seemed to treat everyone there as if he were already facing Justin Gaethje inside the octagon.

"With this heat, he thinks we're Justin Gaethje ," joked one of Ilia Topuria 's training partners.

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💥💀 Ilia Topuria destroying his sparring partners in Miami with anger.

“With this heat he thinks we're Gaethje.” – one of the partners said.

🎥 @Topuriailia pic.twitter.com/sgp4SMBETh

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 26, 2026

The fight against Gaethje is for the unification of the lightweight belt and will be the main event of UFC Casa Branca . Undefeated in professional MMA and enjoying a good moment in his career, Topuria seeks another big victory to expand his legacy.

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On the other side, Gaethje, a veteran in the company, represents a dangerous challenge, despite the Georgian-Spanish fighter's undefeated record. Known for his aggressive style and explosive striking, the American will be fighting practically at home, and all the support from the local crowd could make all the difference.