Gaethje On Topuria's Next Opponent After UFC Freedom Upset

Justin Gaethje has a blunt message for whoever faces Ilia Topuria next: you're in serious trouble.

The UFC lightweight champion, who stopped Topuria via fourth-round corner stoppage at UFC Freedom 250 in June, told the Double Coverage podcast that his former opponent remains one of the sport's elite despite suffering his first professional loss. Gaethje won the undisputed 155-pound title in a major upset when Topuria's corner waved off the fight after four rounds of punishment at the White House.

Gaethje's Assessment Of Topuria's Return

Gaethje expects Topuria to dominate when he steps back into the Octagon. He warned that the Georgian-Spanish fighter will be dangerous for anyone who draws him next, provided Topuria avoids mental lapses. Per Sherdog, Gaethje said Topuria is "one of the best in the world" and added that he wants to see him bounce back strong. The two have traded barbs publicly, but Gaethje maintains he has never questioned Topuria's skill set.

Speculation about a rematch between the two has surfaced, though Arman Tsarukyan strengthened his claim to a title shot with a first-round knockout of Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331 on Sept. 19. Tsarukyan is widely viewed as the top contender at lightweight.

Topuria held the featherweight title before moving up to challenge for lightweight gold earlier this year. No date has been announced for his return.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Justin Gaethje has brutal warning for whoever fights Ilia Topuria next