Justin Gaethje holds no grudges against Ilia Topuria after the intense rivalry built up before their UFC White House fight . The American defeated the Spaniard in the main event, held on June 14th, in a duel marked by numerous provocations. With the victory, the new lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) showed respect for his opponent.
In a statement to 'ONX Sports', Gaethje highlighted Topuria's qualities and stated that he is rooting for his rival's success. According to the American, 'El Matador' possesses a high level of technique and the ability to beat any fighter in the division, and he is also excited to follow his next steps in the organization.
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“I wish him nothing but the best. He’s very, very skilled. He has the ability to beat any of these guys, so I’m excited to watch,” said Justin Gaethje.
Justin Gaethje transformed Ilia Topuria's face at UFC Casa Branca
Topuria was punished by Gaethje in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
After a balanced first round, Ilia Topuria returned for the second determined to justify his five-to-one odds against Justin Gaethje at UFC Casa Branca . Despite landing some good strikes and coming close to finishing the fight, the American held on, and the Spaniard returned for the third round already showing clear signs of fatigue.
With Topuria slowing down, Gaethje began to find his range with precise jabs and even managed to stagger the former champion with a powerful straight punch. Gradually, the Spaniard's face became deformed from the accumulated damage, until, in the break between the fourth and fifth rounds, his team opted to stop the fight.
After the fight, it was confirmed that Topuria suffered fractures to the orbital bones of her face and to her nose.
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Read More about: Ilia Topura, Justin gaethje, UFC
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