No Room for a Rematch: Justin Gaethje Shuts Down Ilia Topuria

The historic fight night at the White House is over, but the drama in the lightweight division is just getting started. From his hospital bed, former champion Ilia Topuria quickly went online to promise fans a future rematch. However, the newly crowned king, Justin Gaethje, has absolutely no interest in running it back. Speaking to reporters right after the event, Gaethje completely dismissed the idea of an immediate second fight, calling his performance a total shutdown. 

For Gaethje, the way the fight ended proved everything. Topuria’s coaches stopped the bout after four rounds of heavy damage, a fact that the American veteran made sure to highlight.

"I would say definitely not a rematch," Gaethje stated clearly. "I mean, I made him quit on the stool. I think it was three to one. I won three rounds to one. In any election, that's a domination." 

The victory is a massive career milestone for the 37-year-old Gaethje. He completely broke down Topuria’s undefeated record by landing brutal right hands and a devastating knee to the body. Gaethje explained that once he forced Topuria to back up in the third round, the champion lost all his power. To make his point undeniable, Gaethje compared their physical states after the war.

"I don't wanna say anything bad about this guy, he was a world champion," Gaethje said. "But he is in the hospital right now, and I'm not." 

While Topuria claims their rivalry is far from finished, Gaethje is only looking forward. With the real belt now over his shoulder, the champion is either considering a perfect retirement or getting ready to defend his title against top contender Arman Tsarukyan. For now, Topuria will just have to heal his injuries and wait his turn.