Topuria Fight Against Gaethje Reported False Ahead UFC 322

Recent rumors suggesting UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria would defend his title against Justin Gaethje at UFC 322 have been definitively denied by Topuria's manager, Lukasz Orzel, who clarified that no official fight offers have been made and that Topuria is currently focused on rest and recovery. Despite Gaethje's team's strong push for a title shot, including retirement threats if denied, insiders note Gaethje's recent mixed fight record weakens his claim compared to contenders like Arman Tsarukyan. Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, maintains his fighter's position for the next title shot, emphasizing the potential high-stakes nature of a Topuria-Gaethje matchup, with predictions that Topuria might need to rely on wrestling to counter Gaethje’s dangerous striking. Spanish journalist Alvaro Colmenero also dismissed speculation about Topuria's fight at UFC 322 or any late 2025 return, suggesting his next fight is more likely in early 2026. While fans eagerly await Topuria’s next opponent following his knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, the champion’s camp urges patience amid the ongoing negotiations and speculation. Overall, the Topuria-Gaethje fight remains a highly anticipated but currently unconfirmed prospect.