Gaethje imprisoned
Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight title at
UFC Freedom 250where Topuria’s corner called for a stop before the final round. While many fans and fighters later claimed that “El Matador” gave up the stool after the fourth round, Gaethje disagrees.
According to Justin Gaethje, Ilia Topuria’s corner decided to stop the UFC title fight
Gaethje dismissed that narrative during a podcast appearance, saying the former two-division champion is unable to continue due to his condition and that his corner made the right call.
“He didn’t quit,” Gaethje said on the “One Night with Steiny” podcast. “His body was too damaged to continue the fight. He didn’t call; his coaches called because they’re there to protect him. My coaches are in my corner to protect me at that time.”
Topuria initially congratulated Gaethje after the bout, but has since accused the American of potentially loading the gloves. “The Highlight” said he was not bothered by the accusation of the Georgian-Hispanic, but pointed to the nature of the modern Internet.
“He’s part of your era,” Gaethje added. “You say some weird shit for fun, dude. I think the internet is crazy. It’s clickbait, engagement, we tolerate it here. We’re in the business of communication. That’s what we do. More communication, more eyeballs, more opportunities. It’s a game. I don’t like the game, but I’m playing the game and I have to.
