UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria may defend his title against Justin Gaethje at a UFC event scheduled for January 2026 in Los Angeles.
Sports journalist Alvaro Colmenero said on the Eurosport network:
The UFC wants to open the new contract with Ilia Topuria in January in Los Angeles, and in this case the rival would be Justin Gaethje.
Topuria’s last fight was in June 2025 at UFC 317, where he knocked out Charles Oliveira in the first round. He holds a record of 17 wins and no losses.
Gaethje last competed in March 2025 at UFC 313, winning by unanimous decision over Rafael Fiziev. His record includes 26 wins and five losses.
