UFC discusses Gaethje Topuria title rematch

UFC commentator Jon Anik has indicated that the promotion is exploring the possibility of an immediate rematch between lightweight champion Justin Gaethje and former titleholder Ilia Topuria. The potential bout, which would be for the lightweight championship, is reportedly under internal discussion within the UFC. Gaethje defeated Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 in June 2026, securing the undisputed lightweight title and handing Topuria the first loss of his professional mixed martial arts career. Topuria suffered significant facial injuries during the fight, including fractured orbital bones and a broken septum, and has only recently returned to public view after a period of recovery. Despite Gaethje's recent championship win and Topuria's defeat, Anik suggested on the Anik Bros. YouTube channel that the UFC is considering putting Topuria directly back into a title fight scenario. He cited the commercial appeal and historical significance of their first meeting, which headlined a major UFC event. "I think there are internal conversations to potentially try to do Gaethje vs. Topuria 2," Anik stated.