Justin Gaethje meets Trump in Oval Office after UFC title win
Justin Gaethje brought his UFC lightweight title to the Oval Office this week, meeting President Donald Trump days after his upset win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250.
Gaethje stopped Topuria between rounds four and five at the White House card on June 14, claiming the undisputed lightweight strap in one of the year's biggest surprises. Most oddsmakers had favored Topuria, who entered undefeated and had beaten Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira in successive title defenses. MMA Mania reported that Gaethje survived early trouble before finding his rhythm and piling up damage until Topuria could not answer the bell for the final round.
Trump praises 'one of the highest rated fights in television history'
Trump posted about the visit on social media, writing that Gaethje came to the Oval Office "to celebrate, with his parents, his great victory two weeks ago." The president added, "It was one of the highest rated fights in the history of television, and what a fight it was. Honor to see the champ. He beat another truly great fighter who had never lost before."
The UFC Freedom 250 card aired on Paramount Plus and drew strong numbers worldwide, according to MMA Mania. Every bout on the card ended in a knockout, and favorable weather allowed the South Lawn event to proceed without delays.
Gaethje now holds the undisputed lightweight title after years of close calls. No timeline has been announced for his first defense.
Original reporting:
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