Ilia Topuria Vows Revenge After Justin Gaethje Targets Family in UFC Freedom 250 Build-Up
In an desperate attempt to inject genuine intrigue into the otherwise gimmicky UFC Freedom 250 card, Justin Gaethje’s decision to weaponize Ilia Topuria's past may backfire.
On a UFC card that doubles as a birthday party, Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria tried to generate interest in a card where the fighters take a backseat to the festivities. At the same time, one fighter feels like his opponent overspoke, and that could add intensity to the fight, which will probably get forgotten.
Last week, Gaethje (32-5, 21 finishes) decided to discuss Topuria's home life.
Justin Gaethje Viciously Targets Topuria's Marital Issues
“I couldn’t imagine being in a room with him for 30 minutes, listening to him talk about himself, And I can say this: I would leave him. That’s all I’m saying. I would leave him. No way I would put up with his sh*t.” said Gaethje, referencing Topuria's ugly marital situiation.
Topuria (17-0, 15 submissions) and his ex-wife, Giorgina Uzcategui, divorced last year. Ms. Uzcategui alleged domestic abuse, which was later dismissed.
Ilia Topuria Fires Back at Justin Gaethje
The UFC lightweight champion responded, without mincing words.
"Justin crossed a line. What happened between my ex-wife and me is our business. We may no longer be together, but she is the mother of my daughter. To everyone insulting her or speaking about things they know nothing about: show some respect. You don’t have to respect our relationship. But respecting someone’s mother should be one of the most basic codes in life. Be better."
When Conor McGregor crossed lines, people applauded. He has the cache and the prestige, in their opinion. Justin Gaethje, for all his extensive success as a fighter, is known for what he does, not what he says. Escalating matters by mentioning family remains a tricky proposition. Speaking of McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov did not take the little jokes in stride.
Is UFC Freedom 250 Worth It for Topuria, Gaethje?
UFC Freedom 250, for honest fight fans, is an embarrassment. It will be laughed at for years. Justin Gaethje is at the end of his career. Meanwhile, at 29, Topuria enters his prime, looking for big fights that will raise his profile. Now, he appears to have added incentive to end the bout early.
