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UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje says one of Ilia Topuria’s patterns was a major factor in pulling off the title fight upset.
Justin Gaethje could potentially make his first UFC lightweight title defense later this year against the Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy winner. Gaethje handed Ilia Topuria his first career loss by TKO at UFC Freedom 250 earlier this year.
After accomplishing one of the most surprising feats in UFC history, Gaethje is looking to add more accolades to his resume. While a rematch with Topuria is unlikely to happen next, play-by-play broadcaster Jon Anik recently hinted that it’s under serious consideration by the matchmakers.
Gaethje’s aggressive approach to the first Topuria fight was a major factor in his successful title win. For one of the few times since UFC Freedom 250, Gaethje has opened up about what he and his team focused on to prepare for Topuria.
Justin Gaethje reveals Ilia Topuria’s major pattern that played a key role in UFC upset
In a recent appearance on the MightyCast podcast, Gaethje was asked about the Topuria fight and a main fixture of his game plan for UFC Freedom 250.
“I guess the best explanation for you to understand is his feet never change rhythms,” Gaethje said of Topuria.
“He never changes rhythm with his feet. It’s always pop, pop, pop, pop, and it’s forwards or backwards. He’s very rarely moving laterally, and that’s how he fights.
“So ultimately it’s like timing his feet and interrupting. The game plan was to interrupt his feet, especially when it’s so constant. It’s very easy to predict, and I’ve never seen him alter from that.” (h/t MMA Fighting)
As of this writing, a timeline for Topuria’s return to the Octagon remains uncertain. Joe Rogan recently cautioned Topuria against making a swift return to the Octagon to run it back with Gaethje.
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