Will Topuria get a REMATCH with Gaethje right away?! “They’re seriously considering it”

Ilia Topuria may get a chance to reclaim the UFC championship belt much sooner than expected. Jon Anik claims that discussions are underway within the organization regarding an immediate rematch between “El Matador” and Justin Gaethje.

Topuria suffered his first loss in his professional MMA career in June. At UFC Freedom 250, he was soundly defeated by Justin Gaethje, and the bout ended in the fourth round when “El Matador’s” corner decided to stop the fight.

For Topuria, the loss also meant he lost his lightweight title. Gaethje himself later admitted that, in his opinion, the former champion should not be granted an immediate rematch. It is possible, however, that UFC officials have a different view on the matter.

Is the UFC considering a Gaethje vs. Topuria rematch?

Jon Anik addressed the topic of Topuria’s future in a video posted on the “Anik Bros” YouTube channel. The UFC commentator believes that a second fight between the Spaniard and “The Highlight” may indeed be under consideration behind the scenes.

“I think there are discussions within the organization about a potential Gaethje vs. Topuria 2 matchup,” Anik said, as quoted by MMA Fighting. “A lot of people are openly wondering, ‘What’s next for Ilia Topuria?’ Of course, there are solid grounds for organizing his fight against Paddy Pimblett. But if you’re a promoter and you have Ilia Topuria, wouldn’t you want to think about putting him in a title fight again, considering what a huge event UFC Freedom 250 was?

“I think this is being seriously considered,” he added.

Gaethje himself, however, seems to have his sights set elsewhere. “The Highlight” is more interested in rematches with Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira, to whom he has lost in the past.

Oliveira currently has no upcoming fight scheduled. Holloway, on the other hand, is coming off a quick TKO victory over Conor McGregor, which was due to the Irishman’s injury.

However, fans will have to wait a while for Gaethje’s next fight. “The Highlight” recently told Sports Illustrated that he’s still dealing with injuries to both hands and doesn’t plan to return to the Octagon before 2027.

Arman Tsarukyan also remains in the title picture. On September 19 at UFC 331, he will face Mauricio Ruffy. A victory could pave the way for him to fight for the title. However, if Tsarukyan loses, one of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of an immediate rematch between Topuria and Gaethje will be removed.