Ilia Topuria is officially ready to return to action after finally receiving medical clearance following his brutal war with Justin Gaethje.
Topuria revealed the news on social media after completing his final medical tests, ending a lengthy period of uncertainty surrounding his comeback.
“El Matador” suffered significant injuries during his fight with Gaethje at the UFC White House card, with his corner eventually stopping the contest after four rounds to prevent further damage.
Ilia Topuria Takes Aim At Justin Gaethje After Clearance
Topuria confirmed that he is now cleared to compete again, but his announcement quickly turned into a message for those who doubted whether he would return.
“Final medical tests done. I’m back,” Topuria wrote on X. “To all the clowns who’ve been talking sh*t and counting me out this whole time, here I am. Now let’s see who’s got the balls.”
The Spanish star then directed attention toward Gaethje, making a surprising comment about the lightweight champion’s gloves during their fight.
“Next time I’ll make sure they check Justin’s gloves so he doesn’t put anything weird on them. See you soon,” Topuria added.
“El Matador” did not elaborate on what he believed was unusual about Gaethje’s gloves, meaning the claim remains an allegation from the former champion rather than an established fact.
He later followed up with another blunt message aimed at Gaethje and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz.
“By the way Justin, f*ck you,” Topuria wrote. “And Ali, f*ck you too.”
The messages come after Gaethje handed Topuria his first defeat at lightweight, taking control of their grueling encounter before the fight was stopped after the fourth round.
With Topuria now medically cleared, the focus shifts to his next opponent. A rematch with Gaethje could be an option following their first meeting, while his long-running rivalry with Paddy Pimblett remains another potential blockbuster matchup.
