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Gaethje Dismisses Topuria's Cheating Allegation Over UFC Fight

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has rejected claims by Ilia Topuria that he cheated to win their bout at UFC Freedom 250 in June, telling his rival to "do better".

Sep 17, 2026, 12:28 PM · 1 min read · language: en

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has responded to allegations made by Ilia Topuria that he cheated during their fight at UFC Freedom 250 in June, according to a report by BBC Sport.

Topuria had insinuated that Gaethje's victory was achieved through cheating, though the specific nature of the allegation was not detailed in the report.

Gaethje rejected the claim directly, telling Topuria he needed to "do better, kid," BBC Sport reported.

The exchange adds to tension between the two fighters following their June bout at UFC Freedom 250, where Gaethje retained his lightweight title.

Ilia Topuria Justin Gaethje Mma Ufc

Sources

'Do better kid' - Gaethje rejects Topuria's cheat claim — BBC Sport

EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.

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