Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje
Head-to-head comparison — tale of the tape, career analysis, stylistic breakdown, and prediction factors
Scheduled Fight
Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje — Sunday, 14 June 2026
UFC Freedom 250 · White House South Lawn, Washington, United States · 5 rounds · lightweight
Full Event Details →Ilia Topuria
17-0-0
Justin Gaethje
"The Highlight"
27-5-0Physical Comparison
Justin Gaethje has the height edge at 180cm vs 170cm for Ilia Topuria — a 10cm difference that gives Gaethje the ability to fight behind range.
Record & Experience
Ilia Topuria brings a record of 17-0-0 across 17 professional bouts (100% win rate).Justin Gaethje enters with 27-5-0 from 32 fights (84% win rate).
Justin Gaethje has the experience edge with 32 bouts compared to 17 — that's 15 more fights under the bright lights, which can matter in championship rounds when fatigue sets in and composure is tested.
In terms of finishing power, Justin Gaethje carries the heavier hands with a 74% stoppage rate vs 41% for Ilia Topuria. Gaethje is the more dangerous finisher of the two.
Ilia Topuria remains undefeated at 17-0 — an unblemished record that adds psychological pressure on Justin Gaethje to be the one to hand them their first loss.
Age & Career Stage
At 29, Ilia Topuria is 8 years younger than Justin Gaethje (37). Youth can translate to speed, recovery, and a longer runway — but Gaethje's experience and ring IQ shouldn't be underestimated.
Key Factors
Topuria's Path to Victory
- • Trust the higher win rate (100% vs 84%)
- • Establish rhythm early and dictate the pace
Gaethje's Path to Victory
- • Use height and reach to fight at range
- • Look for the stoppage (74% KO rate)
- • Greater professional experience (32 bouts)
- • Apply pressure and force the fight on their terms
Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje — FAQ
- What are Ilia Topuria's and Justin Gaethje's records?
- Ilia Topuria is 17-0-0 (7 KOs). Justin Gaethje is 27-5-0 (20 KOs).
- Who is taller — Ilia Topuria or Justin Gaethje?
- Justin Gaethje is taller at 180cm vs 170cm — a 10cm advantage.
- Who has the higher knockout rate?
- Justin Gaethje has the higher KO rate at 74% compared to Ilia Topuria's 41%.