Topuria Accuses Gaethje Of Glove Tampering At UFC Freedom 250

Former UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has accused Justin Gaethje of glove tampering at UFC Freedom 250, where Gaethje handed him the first defeat of his professional career.

Topuria, who lost his lightweight title via TKO after his corner stopped the fight at the unprecedented White House lawn event earlier this year, took to social media with multiple claims about his medical status and the legitimacy of his loss. "Final medical tests done. I'm back," he wrote, per BJPenn.com. "Next time I'll make sure they check Justin's gloves so he doesn't put anything weird on them."

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Topuria Cleared After Orbital Fractures, Issues Challenge

The Georgian fighter's return has been delayed by multiple orbital fractures suffered during the bout. His team recently suggested he had not yet resumed training, but Topuria contradicted those reports while announcing his medical clearance. The former champion closed his statement with profanity directed at both Gaethje and manager Ali Abdelaziz.

Gaethje has not committed to defending the lightweight title and has hinted at retirement since the win. UFC CEO Dana White has not ruled out an immediate rematch, though Gaethje himself has repeatedly rejected the idea. As of now, no evidence supports Topuria's allegations that his opponent's equipment was altered. Neither Gaethje nor his team have responded to the claims.

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Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy meet in the UFC 331 co-main event Saturday, with the winner likely next in line for a title shot should Gaethje choose to continue fighting.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Ilia Topuria accuses Justin Gaethje of cheating at UFC Freedom 250 in X-rated rant