Gaethje's Manager Shoots Down Topuria Rematch

Justin Gaethje's manager has dismissed Ilia Topuria's push for an immediate rematch following the Georgian-Spaniard's first career loss.

Ali Abdelaziz told Submission Radio that Topuria has no authority to demand a second fight after dropping the UFC lightweight title to Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 in June, as first reported by Sherdog. "He's not fighting Justin Gaethje next," Abdelaziz said. "He doesn't call the shots. Only one guy in the past did that and his name is Conor McGregor and he's not Conor McGregor."

Abdelaziz On Why Gaethje Rematch Won't Happen

The manager argued Gaethje has Topuria figured out and would beat him again in a second meeting. "I believe Justin Gaethje will beat him nine out of 10 times. You know why? Justin has his number," Abdelaziz said. He added that Gaethje gains nothing from facing the former champion again so soon.

Abdelaziz also addressed Topuria's suggestion that Gaethje had something unusual in his gloves during the fight. "If this is what he wants to say that he had rocks in his gloves, that's a compliment to Justin Gaethje; how hard he punches," he said, noting that three different state commissions monitored the glove inspection.

Topuria has not responded publicly to Abdelaziz's comments. Gaethje's next opponent remains unannounced.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Justin Gaethje's manager says Ilia Topuria 'doesn't call the shots'