Gaethje's manager says Topuria lacks authority on rematch decision
Sherdog • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 4:31 AM
Last updated Sep 23, 2026
Ali Abdelaziz, manager of Justin Gaethje, stated that Ilia Topuria does not control whether a rematch occurs after Topuria's recent loss to Gaethje for the UFC lightweight title. Despite Topuria's calls for an immediate rematch, Abdelaziz emphasized that it would not happen as Gaethje has nothing to gain from facing Topuria again. He asserted confidence in Gaethje's ability to defeat Topuria again, expressing that Topuria's claims of Gaethje having unusual gloves were just publicity attempts. Abdelaziz's remarks indicate a firm stance against an immediate rematch.
- •Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250.
- •Topuria is seeking a rematch after his first professional loss.
- •Abdelaziz claims Gaethje has no incentive to fight Topuria again.
- •Abdelaziz dismissed Topuria's accusations about glove tampering.
- •Gaethje's manager expressed confidence in his fighter's dominance over Topuria.
- 4:31 AMSherdog — Justin Gaethje's manager says Ilia Topuria 'doesn't call the shots'
"Justin Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, believes Ilia Topuria has no say in whether an immediate rematch happens.
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