Ilia Topuria cleared for UFC return, takes shot at Justin Gaethje

Ilia Topuria has received medical clearance to resume full training following his loss of the UFC lightweight title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 three months ago. The former featherweight and lightweight champion sustained significant facial damage in the bout, with his vision severely compromised by the end of the fight. Gaethje weathered near-finishing damage in the second round before controlling the final rounds, prompting Topuria's corner to stop the fight after the fourth. Topuria announced his clearance on social media with a pointed message: "Final medical tests done. I'm back. To all the clowns who've been talking sh*t and counting me out this whole time, here I am." He also hinted at a potential rematch with Gaethje, adding a jab about glove checks. A rematch between the two is strongly rumored, though the lightweight division remains unsettled with Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway, and Paddy Pimblett all pursuing title opportunities. Gaethje has signaled his return to action will come in 2027.