Justin Gaethje recently dropped a massive teaser regarding his UFC lightweight title unification bout against Ilia Topuria. He suggested that the fight is essentially a lock for the upcoming UFC White House event.
Gaethje secured an undisputed title opportunity after earning a unanimous decision victory over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324. He captured the interim lightweight championship, which set the stage for a bout with Topuria when he returns to the octagon.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Gaethje reflected on his interim title win and addressed what’s next for him. He didn’t hesitate to reveal that he will be fighting Topuria at the White House. His demeanor suggests that he has been in active discussions with the UFC matchmakers.
“[What’s next?] Ilia Topuria on the White House [card]. Has to be. No other option,” Gaethje said. “Walking out of the Oval Office, into the cage, wearing the flag. I can’t think of anything. I’ve been speaking it into existence since I fought [Rafael] Fiziev last year.”
He added:
“I though it would be Topuria in January and then I would fight and defend my belt on the White House card in June,” Gaethje said. “And you know, things change up. Can’t control everything. Ilia takes a step back because of personal issues. I still get to fight an interim championship, which makes me a champion on paper.”
Topuria vs. Gaethje makes sense for the White House event, considering the interim lightweight champion is an American.
Justin Gaethje Confident Ilia Topuria Fight Headlines UFC White House Event
Justin Gaethje also expressed confidence that his lightweight title unification bout will headline the UFC’s White House event.
According to President Donald Trump, the card will feature several title fights. Based on Gaethje and Topuria’s popularity, a main event spot is realistic.
Their respective fighting styles also appeal to MMA fans who enjoy action-packed fights. As a result, Gaethje believes there’s a strong possibility that he and Topuria will main event the White House card.
“I think we’re going to main event [the White House card],” Gaethje told The Pat McAfee Show. “I’m totally guessing, throwing [expletive] against the wall right now. But I mean, what else? They had me specifically above Amanda [Nunes] and Kayla [Harrison] and that’s the biggest fight in women’s MMA.”
Gaethje wasn’t the only one hinting at his next fight, as Topuria also dropped a teaser on his Instagram account.
“The champ is back!”
Gaethje Says He is Taking Measured Approach Toward Fight Preparation
Gaethje also said that he is taking a more measured approach toward his preparation for his bout with Topuria. He stressed that it is important to take some time off and fully recover after his latest bout before returning to training.
Speaking with The Pat McAfee Show, Gaethje noted that age is an important factor in that mindset. In the meantime, ‘The Highlight’ revealed that he has been indulging more in food after maintaining a strict diet and training regimen.
“I’m a little bit beat up after the last fight. I was really sore. My knee’s a little sore. I’m 37 years old now,” Gaethje said. “I trained for ten weeks for a fight, but in between I try to maintain and eat healthy.”
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Justin Gaethje Teases Ilia Topuria Fight at the White House appeared first on Heavy Sports.