Ilia Topuria announced he's ready to return to training, but he also made a shocking accusation about Justin Gaethje.
On the White House lawn in June, Topuria (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) suffered the first loss of his professional career against Gaethje (28-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC), losing the UFC lightweight title by stoppage in the fourth round in the main event of UFC Freedom 250.
Topuria sustained severe facial damage, and the fight was nearly stopped before the fourth round began. However, the fight continued, and the damage continued, prompting Topuria's corner to stop the fight before the final round. Topuria broke both orbital bones, but did not require surgery. It was the most severe damage Topuria took in his career.
While announcing that he's now clear
to return, Topuria accused Gaethje of doing something "weird" to his gloves before the fight.
"Final medical tests done. I’m back," Topuria wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "To all the clowns who’ve been talking shit and counting me out this whole time, here I am. Now let’s see who’s got the balls. Thanks to everyone for the support. Next time I’ll make sure they check Justin’s gloves so he doesn’t put anything weird on them. See you soon."
There have been rumblings that the UFC may want to have Topuria face Gaethje immediately for a rematch. It's not the only option for Topuria, who also has a big rivalry with Paddy Pimblett, who is currently No. 5 in the UFC's official lightweight media rankings. Given his accusation toward Gaethje, it's likely that's the direction the former two-division champion would like to go upon his return to the octagon.
"By the way Justin, f*ck you. And Ali (Abdelaziz), f*ck you too," Topuria wrote in another message on X.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Ilia Topuria cleared to return, accuses Justin Gaethje of 'weird' glove manipulation
