Ilia Topuria was defeated by Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC Casa Branca . Photo: UFC Europe / X
'On the sidelines' after absorbing very hard blows from Justin Gaethje in the main fight of UFC Casa Branca and losing the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg.), Ilia Topuria 's state of health continues to shock. Pablo Motos, presenter and friend of El Matador, came to the public this Wednesday (17) on the program 'El Hormiguero' to reveal some details of a meeting he had with the fighter.
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According to Motos, even though the injuries are still serious, the former champion remains focused on sharing the octagon with Gaethje again, not only to have the chance to get revenge, but also to give the Spanish public the opportunity to watch the Ultimate live.
“This morning I was with Ilia. He has fractures in his orbital bones and nose. This morning they were treating his injuries and he still couldn't open his eyes properly. Then we talked about something we're going to do this summer, making jokes, and then he said a phrase that I loved. He looks at me with his eyes closed and says: 'Champions, when we fall, we fall hard.' They are already looking to the future. He told me: 'I would love to have the rematch in Spain with Gaethje',” said the presenter.
🚨 Pablo Motos, a close friend of Ilia Topuria , provided an update on his current physical and mental state
"This morning I was with Ilia. He has fractures in his orbital bones, in his nose.
This morning they were treating his wounds and he still couldn't open his eyes… pic.twitter.com/SEeJ26qdfX
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 17, 2026
Ilia Topuria preached respect for Justin Gaethje after defeat.
Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Casa Branca . Photo: X / UFC on Paramount
The setback marked Ilia Topuria 's first defeat as a professional MMA fighter, as well as breaking one of the most impressive knockout streaks in recent years. Known for his great self-confidence, the Georgian/Spanish fighter showed respect for his opponent in a post on Instagram, made last Monday (15).
“Justin, congratulations. You said you’d leave your mark on my face… And you did. You took the sight out of my right eye in the first round, and at the end of the second, out of my left as well. No excuses. I had one of the best matches of my life. I came in sharp, prepared, and ready. Last night was your night. That’s the nature of this game. Glory and pain walk side by side. I will heal. I will rest. And I will come back stronger, wiser, and much more dangerous. And trust me… This story between us is far from over. We will have our rematch,” he stated.
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