Justin
Gaethje has shut down a particular narrative that emerged after
his win over Ilia
Topuria.
Gaethje captured the
Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight title at
UFC Freedom 250, where Topuria’s corner called for a stoppage
before the final round. While many fans and fighters later claimed
that “El Matador” quit on the stool after the fourth round, Gaethje
disagrees.
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Justin Gaethje says Ilia Topuria’s corner made the decision to
stop the UFC title fight
Gaethje pushed back on that narrative during a podcast appearance,
saying the former two-division champion was unable to continue
because of his condition and that his corner made the right
call.
“He didn’t quit on the stool,” Gaethje said on the “One Night with
Steiny” podcast. “His body was too compromised to continue
fighting. He didn’t make the call; his coaches made the call
because they’re there to protect him. My coaches are in my corner
to protect me in those times.”
Topuria initially congratulated Gaethje following the bout but has
since accused the American of potentially loading his gloves. “The
Highlight” said he isn’t bothered by the Georgian-Spaniard’s
accusation, instead pointing to the nature of the modern
internet.
“He’s part of your era,” Gaethje added. “You guys say weird sh*t
for fun, dude. I think the internet’s crazy, man. It’s clickbait,
engagement, we’re farming out here. We’re farming for interactions.
That’s what we’re doing. More interactions, more eyeballs, more
opportunity. That’s the game. I don’t like the game, but I’m going
to have to play the game. I’m going to try and be me when I do
it.”