Ilia Topuria’s UFC lightweight title loss to Justin Gaethje confirmed in manager’s update

Ilia Topuria’s undisputed UFC lightweight title reign came to an end on 18 June at UFC Freedom 250.

Justin Gaethje pulled off a massive upset by dethroning Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC Freedom 250. The fight took place on 18 June in the headline slot, ending Topuria’s 14-month title run. Gaethje, a 37-year-old American, became the new undisputed lightweight champion after three prior attempts.

Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, confirmed on X that the champion’s first title defense will be against a fighter he has never faced. That rules out immediate rematches with Topuria, Charles Oliveira, Conor McGregor, Max Holloway, and Paddy Pimblett. Abdelaziz called the matchup “exciting” but gave no name. The likely contender is Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 2 lightweight who has never fought Gaethje.

Topuria’s loss leaves his next steps unclear. He had called for a rematch in Spain after Gaethje’s win. But with Gaethje’s team blocking rematches, Topuria must now wait for a new opponent or a different route back to the title. Gaethje, meanwhile, is expected to defend in early 2027 after a layoff this year.

Tsarukyan, 29, has stayed active outside the cage with Real American Freestyle Wrestling. He last fought in November 2025 and sits as the top-ranked contender. Gaethje has now faced every top-five lightweight except Tsarukyan, making the Armenian the clear next challenger.