Ilia Topuria's Gruesome Facial Injuries Revealed After Brutal TKO Loss
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- Gaming Ilia Topuria's Gruesome Facial Injuries Revealed After Brutal TKO Loss By Brian Mazique,
- Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights.
- WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Ilia Topuria of Spain faces Justin Gaethje in the UFC lightweight championship fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC.
Gaming Ilia Topuria's Gruesome Facial Injuries Revealed After Brutal TKO Loss By Brian Mazique,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Brian Mazique has covered combat sports and video games since 2011.Follow Author Jun 17, 2026, 02:02am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary Justin Gaethje finally captured the undisputed UFC lightweight championship, defeating previously undefeated Ilia Topuria via fourth-round TKO at UFC Freedom 250, held at the White House. Topuria sustained non-displaced fractures to both orbital bones, with the right eye more severely impacted, though surgery is not required. These injuries contributed to the vision problems that prompted his corner to stop the fight. Gaethje's uppercuts were key, despite Topuria nearly finishing him in round two. Topuria graciously congratulated Gaethje on Instagram, acknowledging his vision loss during the bout and calling for a rematch. However, Gaethje is hesitant. Topuria faces an extended recovery, with a return anticipated in early 2027.
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: Ilia Topuria of Spain faces Justin Gaethje in the UFC lightweight championship fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)Zuffa LLCIlia Topuria suffered two broken orbital bones as a result of his fourth-round TKO loss to Justin Gaethje on Sunday at the White House in the main event of UFC Freedom 250. Gaethje finally captured the elusive undisputed UFC championship after falling short twice before.