Justin Gaethje claims Ilia Topuria showed toughness despite late stoppage

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 12:19 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Justin Gaethje claims Ilia Topuria showed toughness despite late stoppage
Summary

Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria faced off in a four-round bout, with Gaethje picking up two post-fight bonuses. Gaethje disagreed with claims that Topuria quit, highlighting that Topuria's spirit appeared broken during a crucial moment in round two. After taking significant damage, Topuria was taken to the hospital following his first professional loss. The fight started evenly, but momentum shifted after Gaethje knocked Topuria down in the third round. Topuria rallied in the fourth, but much had already unraveled by that point.

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By the Numbers
  • Justin Gaethje fought Ilia Topuria in a four-round matchup.
  • Gaethje rejected claims that Topuria quit during the fight.
  • Topuria was hospitalized after suffering his first professional loss.
  • The fight featured a turning point in the second round.
  • Gaethje earned $825,000 in bonuses for his performance.
Latest Updates
  • 12:19 PMYahoo SportsJustin Gaethje rejects claims Ilia Topuria quit but highlights moment his ‘spirit’ was broken
What they're saying
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Justin Gaethje doesn’t believe Ilia Topuria quit during their four-round warGaethje picked up two more post-fight bonuses after putting on exactly the kind of show fans have come to expect from him inside the Octagon. Even though Topuria showed plenty of toughness throughout, some, including Paddy Pimblett, suggested he quit after not making it to the final round.

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