It’s far from official, but Justin Gaethje (26-5) is rumored to be Ilia Topuria’s (17-0) first lightweight title defense.
According to Alvaro Colmenro of Eurosport, the UFC is looking to kick off its Paramount broadcast partnership with Topuria’s first title defense. If it materializes, Topuria is likely to put his belt on the line against Gaethje in January in Los Angeles.
https://t.co/qCzgp5K6Ko pic.twitter.com/McLmq728Og
— Álvaro Colmenero (@KOlmeneroMMA) October 5, 2025
Gaethje Has Been Vocal About Receiving Next Title Shot
Topuria won the featherweight title by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski last year and defended it by handing Max Holloway his lone knockout loss.