Islam Makhachev reflects on Justin Gaethje's title win over Ilia Topuria
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 8:45 PM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
Islam Makhachev reacted to Justin Gaethje's victory over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, which took place on June 15, 2026. Gaethje, the interim champion, dominated Topuria, forcing his corner to stop the fight at the conclusion of the fourth round. Makhachev praised Gaethje's performance while criticizing Topuria for not finishing the fight. Topuria had previously claimed he would knock out Gaethje in the first round, leading to heightened expectations for their matchup. Makhachev’s comments also hinted at missed opportunities for both fighters, as Topuria had been targeting a future fight with him prior to this loss.
- •Justin Gaethje defeats Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 on June 15, 2026.
- •The fight was stopped by Topuria's corner after round four.
- •Islam Makhachev mocked Topuria for his performance and celebrated Gaethje's victory.
- •Topuria, previously undefeated, had aimed for a title fight against Makhachev.
- •The bout showcased a significant upset in the lightweight division.
- 8:38 PMCBS Sports — Ilia Topuria breaks silence after Justin Gaethje loss; Islam Makhachev and Paddy Pimblett mock former champion
- 8:45 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev on Topuria's UFC title loss: 'He who exalts himself will be humbled'
- 3:47 PMYahoo Sports — Islam Makhachev reacts to Justin Gaethje’s win over Ilia Topuria
"UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev was glad to see Ilia Topuria humbled at UFC Freedom 250.
"Islam Makhachev is enjoying Ilia Topuria’s humbling lesson at the UFC White House event.
"Makhachev and Pimblett weren't kind to Topuria after his loss at UFC Freedom 250
Sources
External links- CBS SportsJun 16, 2026, 8:38 PMIlia Topuria breaks silence after Justin Gaethje loss; Islam Makhachev and Paddy Pimblett mock former champion
Makhachev and Pimblett weren't kind to Topuria after his loss at UFC Freedom 250
- Yahoo SportsJun 15, 2026, 8:45 PMIslam Makhachev on Topuria's UFC title loss: 'He who exalts himself will be humbled'
UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev was glad to see Ilia Topuria humbled at UFC Freedom 250.
- Yahoo SportsJun 15, 2026, 3:47 PMIslam Makhachev reacts to Justin Gaethje’s win over Ilia Topuria
Islam Makhachev is enjoying Ilia Topuria’s humbling lesson at the UFC White House event.
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