Topuria Pushes Back On Hostile Territory Narrative Ahead of White House

Ilia Topuria is not buying the idea that he walks into UFC Freedom 250 as the non-home fighter.

Ilia defends his lightweight title defence against Justin Gaethje on June 14 at the White House. Gaethje is the only American competing in the main and co-main event, which has led many to assume the political backdrop will work against Topuria. However, Topuria disagrees: "I don't feel that way, that I'm the bad guy. I've always felt very loved in this country and I love this country so much. I don't think that he has a preference. He is a fan of the sport and he just wants the best to win."

Gaethje earned his shot with a unanimous decision win over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 on January 24, a result that brought him the interim lightweight title. It is his third attempt at becoming the undisputed lightweight champion, having previously been submitted by Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira.

The Challenge

Topuria has not lost a professional fight, has not been taken the distance in his last three outings, and arrives at June 14 as the most dangerous finisher in the lightweight division. And yet, following his verbal altercation with Josh Hokit, Justin sees a weakness.

“It’s funny because he’s very emotional. That was good to see. He got emotional. Although I do get emotional defending my friends, as well. But you can’t let another man control you like that! Never. July 4, 1776, we had to be at least 50-to-1 dogs. So 5-to-1? I feel lucky being only 5-to-1. And we’ve been f*cking thriving since. So, I’m here to write the same story,” Gaethje stated