Ilia Topuria trains outdoors, reveals his views on it before UFC Freedom 250 fight with Justin Gaethje

Ilia Topuria has provided fight fans with a glimpse into his preparations for his highly anticipated showdown against Justin Gaethje.

The undefeated 29-year-old MMA superstar has notably shed light on an outdoor training session he partook in, as well as his views on the same.

It comes at a time when there's widespread speculation surrounding the venue at which their fight would be held, especially in regard to how the outdoor elements might affect the fighters' performances. 

Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje headlines the UFC White House card in an outdoor setting

Currently, reigning UFC lightweight champion Topuria is scheduled to clash against interim UFC lightweight titlist Gaethje. Their title unification matchup will headline UFC Freedom 250 at the White House in Washington, D.C., on June 14. 

A special lighting grid, referred to as "The Claw," has been installed at the venue. The fights will take place on the South Lawn, to be specific, in an outdoor environment rather than the usual closed arena setting. 

Ergo, many fans and experts, including the likes of UFC color commentator Joe Rogan, have questioned whether the elements such as high humidity, precipitation/rainfall, insects, etc., might compromise the environment in which the athletes compete. 

UFC CEO and president Dana White himself acknowledged that the elements could impact the event. Regardless, White alluded that the very opportunity to compete in a major sporting event at one of the most important places in the U.S., the White House, would surely entail certain challenges that one has to overcome. 

Ilia Topuria trains outdoors, opens up about the experience ahead of UFC Freedom 250 fight

In episode No. 3 of the UFC Freedom 250 Embedded: Vlog Series, Ilia Topuria was featured looking for an outdoor location where he could train in Washington, D.C. The UFC icon stated: 

"We are going to try to find a place to train outside, probably in a park or something like that. I just want to train outside to get used to it. Actually, this is going to be for the first time that I'm going to be doing something like this." 

Additionally, upon coming across a musician performing on the street, Topuria said, "On top of everything, we have music." He clapped in acknowledgment of the artiste. 

Jesus Gallo, who's Topuria's coach, chimed in and indicated that his star pupil noted that it was quite hot and humid. Apparently, "El Matador" suggested that they should perhaps train outside and get accustomed to the outdoor environment for his upcoming fight. 

Furthermore, Topuria explained, "What a weird experience. I thought it would be tougher, but actually, I feel very comfortable. Wow. Yeah. Feel fresh." 

The former UFC featherweight champion asserted that he feels better, more prepared, and more mature -- all more than ever before. He also posed for photographs with a few fans. 

The Georgian-Spaniard fighter warned Justin Gaethje that, come fight night, he wouldn't have to suffer too long. Topuria highlighted, however, that the bad news is that Gaethje would lose, albeit to a legend. 

 

Watch Ilia Topuria's outdoor training session and his views on the same below (*comments at the 7:23-minute mark of the video):