Topuria Calls Gaethje A Nobody After UFC White House Loss

Ilia Topuria dismissed Justin Gaethje as a "nobody" with zero say in matchmaking despite losing to the lightweight champion at UFC White House earlier this year.

Topuria told Spanish outlet ABC.es that Gaethje would be relegated to a co-main event if the UFC books him against Paddy Pimblett next, per MMA Mania. "He doesn't call any shots," the former featherweight champion said. "This is between the UFC and me. Whatever we decide, whatever's best for us, that's what Justin will do. Justin is a nobody."

Topuria's Paddy Pimblett Prediction

The 29-year-old was equally dismissive of Pimblett, telling the outlet he would "eat him up like the sausage he is." Topuria claimed "The Baddy" lacks the power, takedowns, or submission threat that made Gaethje dangerous. "You can see everything he's trying to do," he said.

Topuria quit on the stool after Gaethje broke his orbital bone in the main event at UFC White House in September. The Georgian fighter called himself "the biggest star in the history of the sport" and suggested any Pimblett matchup would draw more eyes than a Gaethje title defense.

No timeline has been announced for Topuria's return. Gaethje holds the lightweight strap after stopping Topuria in five rounds.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Ilia Topuria labels Justin Gaethje a ‘nobody’ at risk of demotion for ‘El Matador’ comeback against Paddy Pimblett