Ilia Topuria recovering from injury after UFC Freedom 250 defeat
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 12:09 PM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
Ilia Topuria is recovering well after losing to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 on June 11. Topuria’s corner threw in the towel after four rounds of action, marking his first career defeat. He suffered a fractured orbital bone, confirmed not to need surgery. Following the fight, Topuria expressed gratitude toward Gaethje and stated his intention to return more prepared. He is expected to face Conor McGregor in Dublin in November as part of his comeback campaign.
- •Topuria lost his lightweight title at UFC Freedom 250.
- •Gaethje won after Topuria's corner stopped the fight.
- •Topuria suffered a non-surgical orbital fracture.
- •He plans to return stronger after recovery.
- •Topuria is set to fight McGregor in November.
- 12:09 PMYahoo Sports — Topuria health scare turns out true? Dana White vindicated by new UFC report
"Ilia Topuria is said to be recovering well following the first defeat of his MMA career. The former two-weight champion lost his lightweight title at UFC Freedom 250 on Sunday night.
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