The victory proved lucrative for the 37-year-old, who secured $825,000 in post-fight bonuses, including top honors for both Fight and Performance of the Night. Gaethje’s durability wore down the previously undefeated Topuria, forcing the champion's corner to concede the match as the ringside doctor prepared to intervene. This win unifies the lightweight gold, following Gaethje’s interim title victory over Paddy Pimblett earlier this year.
Justin Gaethje Claims Lightweight Title at White House UFC Freedom 250
Under the lights of the White House South Lawn, Justin Gaethje defied 6-to-1 odds to seize the UFC Lightweight Championship. The veteran fighter dismantled Ilia Topuria in a brutal fourth-round TKO, turning the nation’s 250th birthday celebration into a career-defining moment of underdog triumph before a crowd of invited guests.
Earlier on the card, Diego Lopes set the tone with a thundering TKO victory over Steve Garcia, marking a successful start to the historic event. While 4,000 guests watched from the South Lawn, tens of thousands more gathered at the nearby Ellipse to mark the milestone anniversary. Reflecting on the atmosphere, Gaethje credited his faith and the support of the U.S. military for carrying him through the championship rounds, calling the experience a legendary milestone in his long career.
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