Justin Gaethje claims lightweight title after brutal fight against Ilia Topuria
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 10:53 AM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
At the White House UFC event on June 15, Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria to become the undisputed UFC lightweight champion. The fight, described as 'ultra-violent', ended after the fourth round when Topuria’s corner stopped the match due to severe injuries. Gaethje showcased strong performance, eventually dropping Topuria in the third round. Post-fight, Topuria was taken to the hospital for treatment, with UFC President Dana White indicating potential orbital bone damage. Gaethje received a handshake from President Donald Trump as part of the award for 'fight of the night', which provided both fighters with significant financial bonuses.
- •Gaethje won the UFC lightweight title at the White House event.
- •Fight stopped in the fourth round due to Topuria's injuries.
- •Topuria was reported to be taken to the hospital post-fight.
- •Both fighters earned a bonus of $400,000 as 'fight of the night'.
- •Dana White speculated on a possible broken orbital bone for Topuria.
- 10:53 AMYahoo Sports — 'Ultra-Violent' Fight Of The Night Ends In Bloody Mess As Trump Watches
"Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria gave the president show-stopping savagery -- and the images tell the story.
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