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Justin Gaethje has built his reputation on violence inside the octagon, and he plans to bring that same intensity against Ilia Topuria.
The interim lightweight champion Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC) is set to face undefeated champion Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) in a title unification bout headlining UFC Freedom 250 at the White House on June 14, streaming on Paramount+.
Throughout his UFC career, Gaethje has consistently managed to bounce back into title contention. Despite suffering major defeats to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway, he has always responded with strong performances. Now a two-time interim champion, Gaethje will make his third attempt to capture the undisputed lightweight title when he faces Topuria.
“I’m far more dangerous after a loss than I am after a win,” Gaethje told Grind City Media. “That’s just human nature. When things are going well, it can be difficult to stay fully committed to the grind the way you need to. But UFC 300 was a quick reminder for me — a brutal knockout.
“So I still train with the mindset that I just got knocked out by Max Holloway. I’ve picked up two wins since then, which has been great, but I still carry that mentality. People thought I was done. They tried to move past me. But I’ve continued to stop these younger fighters who keep coming after me.”
Gaethje has earned victories over fighters such as Paddy Pimblett, Michael Chandler, Rafael Fiziev, and Tony Ferguson, leaving many of them bloodied in the process. Although Topuria remains undefeated, Gaethje believes the champion is about to face something entirely different.
“All these younger guys are chasing my spot,” Gaethje said. “Every time I’ve had the chance, I’ve defended it. I’m still here because I’m one of the best fighters in the world. Topuria is an unbelievable talent, but I trust my coach and I trust the game plan we’re building. And when we fight, I’m going to change his face — just like I’ve done to everyone else.”
