Justin Gaethje has fired back at Ilia Topuria after the former champion accused him of foul play in their title fight earlier this year. The two fighters met in a unification contest in June on the grounds of the White House, where Gaethje forced Topuria to quit on his stool before the final round.
Topuria's accusation and medical update
Topuria's team confirmed the fighter fractured both orbital bones in his face but did not require surgery. He received a medical suspension but recently announced on social media that he has been cleared to return. In the same post, he suggested Gaethje had cheated, writing: "Final medical tests done. I'm back. To all the clowns who've been talking s*** 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."
Gaethje's blunt response
Gaethje quickly dismissed the remarks, posting: "94 days and the best you could come up with is a lame excuse. As terrible as your last performance. Do better kid." Topuria replied: "By the way, Justin, f*** you. And Ali, f*** you too."
Manager enters the exchange
Gaethje's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, responded: "Welcome back Champ, I'm glad you are ok. I'm not gonna give you the F word back because your son is my friend, and I cannot say bad words to his father. Tell him I said what's up, he is the man." Topuria fired back: "Don't bring my son into this. You being his friend has nothing to do with me and you. You know exactly why I said what I said. So don't hide behind him. F*** you still stands."
