Makhachev backs Topuria to stop Gaethje but refuses to count out the veteran

Former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has thrown his weight behind Ilia Topuria ahead of Sunday’s title unification bout against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250, held on the south lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. on June 14.

In an interview shared by the UFC’s official social media channels, Makhachev said he believes the eight-year age gap between the two fighters will prove decisive, though he was careful not to write off the American challenger entirely.

“Of course, I’m not counting Gaethje out. He’s an old warhorse with a lot of experience. But Topuria is younger. It will be a great fight for the fans. I believe this fight definitely won’t go the distance. And I’m leaning towards Topuria winning,” Makhachev said.

Gaethje (27-5) enters the contest as a heavy underdog against the undefeated Topuria (17-0), who fights under the nickname “El Matador.” Makhachev’s prediction carries particular weight given his own history at 155 pounds — the Dagestani went 15-1 during a dominant run that included winning the lightweight title and defending it four times before moving up to welterweight.

Notably, Gaethje is the only prominent lightweight contender Makhachev never faced during that reign. The matchup was discussed but never materialised before Makhachev shifted divisions.

The stakes extend beyond Sunday’s result. Topuria has long signalled his desire to pursue Makhachev at welterweight should he get past Gaethje, a potential super-fight widely regarded as one of the most anticipated bouts in recent UFC history.

UFC Freedom 250 features a seven-fight card that also includes an interim heavyweight title fight between two-division former champion Alex Pereira and former interim titleholder Ciryl Gane.