Topuria Declares He's Back After Gaethje Accusations

UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria announced his return to action while leveling cheating accusations at Justin Gaethje, according to MMA Fighting's Between the Links podcast.

Topuria claimed he's back from his layoff and took aim at Gaethje during discussions ahead of this weekend's UFC 331 card in Los Angeles. The Georgian champion has not competed since his knockout victory over Max Holloway earlier this year.

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UFC 331 Flyweight Title Rematch Set for Saturday

Joshua Van defends the flyweight belt against Alexandre Pantoja in Saturday's main event, while Arman Tsarukyan faces Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event. A victory for either lightweight contender could position them for a title shot, though the promotion has not confirmed whether the winner receives an immediate crack at the belt.

Elsewhere in the sport, Scott Coker's new organization Ki MMA officially launched this week with an event in New York City on Monday. Regional Assault Fighting 13 headlines Colby Covington against Belal Muhammad and features Khamzat Chimaev taking on Gilbert Burns in separate bouts.

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Former NFL linebacker Ray Lewis is reportedly in discussions to compete for Regional Assault Fighting in a future event. UFC 331 takes place Saturday at the arena in Los Angeles with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Between the Links: Countdown to UFC 331, Ilia Topuria’s comments, Aspinall vacates, more