Overview
- Topuria lost the lightweight title to Justin Gaethje by TKO on June 14 and suffered multiple facial and foot injuries that led to a medical suspension.
- On Sept. 16 Topuria posted that his final medical tests are done and that he is "back," and he also accused Gaethje of having "something weird" on his gloves.
- Gaethje rejected the allegation on social media and said Topuria’s claim was a "lame excuse," while Gaethje has also said he does not want an immediate rematch and plans to rest through the year.
- Topuria’s physical trainer Jesús Gallo told reporters that Topuria is slowly resuming training in Miami and will be ready to fight starting in February 2027, a timeline that clashes with earlier statements from UFC leadership.
- With the commission suspension timeline, Gaethje’s availability, contender results and competing matchup ideas such as Paddy Pimblett all in play, the UFC has not confirmed an opponent, date or booking for Topuria’s return.