Gaethje Shocks the World, Defeats Ilia Topuria

Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria in the main event of the historic UFC White House card.

Gaethje opened the fight with a straight left to Topuria's nose. The champion absorbed the blow and began to press forward. The Georgian-Spanish fighter didn't throw strikes in the first minute, instead advancing on Gaethje, defending with head movement and a high guard. The American feinted a takedown attempt, but Topuria wasn't fooled. By the middle of the round, Topuria's right eye was visibly bleeding.

The two engaged in close-range exchanges in the final minute, with Topuria's attacks becoming increasingly varied. The undefeated 29-year-old targeted the body with a left uppercut and landed powerful right hooks.

Topuria's boxing attacks grew stronger as the second round progressed. Powerful uppercuts from Topuria forced Gaethje to the ground. The Georgian secured a mount position and attempted an armbar and a triangle choke, but the American survived both submissions.

At the start of the third round, Gaethje initiated a clinch, and the interim champion landed several strong hooks. In the following minute, the pace of the fight slowed, allowing both fighters a brief respite. Topuria was knocked down and bleeding, but Gaethje failed to capitalize effectively, allowing the 29-year-old Georgian to regain his feet. Gaethje finished the round stronger, pressing Topuria against the cage and landing high kicks.

Between the third and fourth rounds, medical personnel conducted a serious assessment of Topuria's condition. There was a dispute over whether to allow Topuria to continue fighting, as his face was swollen and his eyes were nearly shut. Nevertheless, the fight proceeded.

Topuria's eye problems worsened, prompting him to change his strategy. He took the fight to the ground, but Gaethje quickly got back to his feet. After the fourth round, referee Marc Goddard stopped the fight due to the severe condition of Topuria's face.