Justin Gaethje rallied after a difficult start and stopped previously undefeated Ilia Topuria when Topuria’s corner ended the fight before Round 5, giving Gaethje the UFC lightweight championship.
🔵 Topuria — Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Elite boxing and combinations
- Fast starter who won key early exchanges
- Excellent accuracy and finishing instincts
- Entered undefeated and full of confidence
❌ Cons
- Relied heavily on early momentum
- Took increasing damage as the fight wore on
- Struggled with Gaethje’s pressure and durability
- Facial swelling became a major factor late in the fight
🔴 Gaethje — Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Incredible toughness and cardio
- Dangerous power that changes fights instantly
- Thrives in chaotic exchanges
- Championship heart when adversity hits
❌ Cons
- Slow start
- Absorbed significant punishment early
- Took risks that could have backfired
- Relied on durability to survive Topuria’s best shots
💥 The Turning Point
Topuria looked sharp through the opening rounds, but Gaethje flipped the fight in Round 3 with a huge right hand and relentless pressure. By Round 4, Topuria’s face was badly damaged, and his corner stopped the fight before the fifth round could begin.