Dana White Dismisses Ilia Topuria's Accusations Against Justin Gaethje: "I Missed That"

UFC CEO Dana White has seen just about everything in combat sports, but he isn't spending his free time scrolling through internet fight drama.

When asked by interviewer Nina Drama about recent allegations made by former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, who hinted lightweight champion Justin Gaethje loaded his gloves during their title fight, White admitted the entire conspiracy theory flew right past him.

"I missed that," White told her. "I try to stay away from the fight stuff. Social media is full of sh*t."

Internet Noise vs. Octagon Reality

The wild accusations stem from UFC Freedom 250 in June, where Justin Gaethje handed Ilia Topuria the first loss of his professional career. Gaethje claimed the 155-pound championship belt via a grueling fourth-round corner stoppage that left Topuria severely battered with two broken orbital bones.

After completing his recovery and passing final medical tests, Topuria took to X to announce his return to the Octagon. However, he couldn't resist throwing a jab at the new champion, writing that next time he would ensure officials check Gaethje's gloves so he "doesn't put anything weird on them."

Gaethje was quick to shut down the conspiracy theory, pointing out his signature power has inflicted similar damage on opponents throughout his career. Rejoining the online back-and-forth, Gaethje fired back at Topuria: "94 days and the best you could come up with is a lame excuse. As terrible as your last performance. Do better kid."

For White, the social media accusations hold zero weight. UFC gloves are strictly regulated and inspected by athletic commission officials prior to every bout, making glove tampering virtually impossible. Rather than indulging internet rumors, White remains focused on match-making for Topuria’s eventual return, with potential matchups against Gaethje in a high-stakes rematch or lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett currently on the table.