UFC commentator Jon Anik says the promotion is having internal conversations about booking a rematch between lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria. Gaethje claimed the undisputed UFC lightweight title this summer when Topuria's corner threw in the towel at UFC White House, marking the first loss of Topuria's MMA career. Gaethje has already stated he will not compete again until 2027, leaving the lightweight title picture unsettled, with Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy all in contention.
UFC commentator Jon Anik has indicated that the promotion is internally discussing a potential rematch between lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria, though nothing has been officially confirmed or announced.
Gaethje captured the undisputed UFC lightweight title this past summer at UFC White House, ending Topuria's unbeaten run when Topuria's corner threw in the towel — handing the Spaniard the first professional MMA loss of his career. Gaethje has since stated publicly that he does not plan to compete again until 2027, leaving the 155-pound title picture in a state of uncertainty.
Topuria, now 17-1, holds the number-one divisional ranking and the top spot in the pound-for-pound rankings at just 29 years old. Fighting out of Spain under the Climent Club banner, he stands five-foot-seven with a 69-inch reach and lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute, complemented by a well-rounded ground game averaging nearly two takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
The division is far from idle in the meantime. Contenders including Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan versus Mauricio Ruffy are all positioned as potential title challengers. Holloway, ranked fourth at lightweight and the number-nine pound-for-pound fighter in the world, is one of the sport's most prolific volume strikers at 6.92 significant strikes per minute. Oliveira, ranked third at lightweight, brings a 37-11 record and a submission threat that averages 2.6 attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Topuria's rematch interest is described only as internal UFC discussion — not a booked or signed fight
- Gaethje's self-imposed 2027 timeline complicates any near-term title defense and opens the door for an interim title scenario
- The lightweight top five features multiple credible contenders who could press the UFC to act regardless of a Gaethje-Topuria sequel
- A rematch would carry significant weight given it would be Topuria's first opportunity to avenge his only professional defeat
Arman Tsarukyan vs Mauricio Ruffy
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