Gaethje focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
After winning the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) by defeating Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC Casa Branca , held last Sunday (14), in Washington DC (USA), Justin Gaethje stated that he does not intend to make an immediate decision about a possible retirement. However, for Arman Tsarukyan , the new champion is still far from ending his MMA career and remains in a position to compete among the best names in the category.
The Armenian praised the American's performance and stated that the veteran demonstrated he is in one of the best phases of his career. In Tsarukyan's view, the performance against Topuria was enough to dispel any speculation about a retirement from the octagon.
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“He shouldn’t retire because he looked so good. He’s at his peak. He looks strong and fast. In good condition, good chin. He’s like a new version of Justin Gaethje ,” revealed one of the category’s top performers in an interview with Ariel Helwani’s YouTube channel.
The statements are noteworthy because they come from an athlete who closely follows the elite of the lightweight division. Tsarukyan has already shared the octagon with names like Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024 and knows well the level of demand required to remain competitive among the best in the world.
Against Ilia Topuria , Gaethje displayed precisely the qualities highlighted by the Armenian. In addition to withstanding pressure, the American managed to impose his rhythm throughout the fight and find the best strikes in the stand-up exchanges. His solid performance against an undefeated champion reinforced the impression that the veteran still has the fuel to remain at the highest level of the sport.
UFC White House Results
MAIN CARD – starting at 21 PM (Brasilia time)
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria by knockout (corner stoppage) End of Round 4 – Title fight
Heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg): Ciryl Gane defeated Alex Poatan by knockout (left cross) at 1:17 of round 2 – Interim title fight
Bantamweight (up to 61,2 kg): Sean O'Malley defeated Aiemann Zahabi by knockout (right straight) at 4:01 of round 2.
Heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg): Josh Hokit defeated Derrick Lewis by knockout (punches) at 4:08 of round 2.
Lightweight (up to 70,3 kg): Mauricio Ruffy defeated Michael Chandler by knockout (punches) at 4:29 of round 1.
Middleweight (up to 83,9 kg): Bo Nickal defeated Kyle Daukaus by knockout (elbows) at 4:34 of round 1.
Featherweight (up to 65,7 kg): Diego Lopes defeated Steve Garcia by knockout (punches) at 2:42 of round 2.
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