Ilia Topuria Sustains Orbital Fractures in UFC Title Loss to Justin Gaethje

Ilia Topuria suffered non-displaced fractures of both orbital bones in his fourth-round TKO loss to Justin Gaethje. The fight took place on June 14, 2026, at the White House South Lawn during UFC Freedom 250.

Gaethje landed an uppercut in the clinch in the first round that caused early damage. Topuria responded in the second round with heavy body punches that nearly ended the fight, but chose to pursue a submission instead of keeping Gaethje standing. Gaethje recovered in the third round and landed repeated right hands and uppercuts.

The ringside doctor considered stopping the fight after the third round but allowed it to continue. Topuria's corner stopped the bout before the fifth round.

A medical report relayed by MARCA stated the fractures affected both orbital bones, with the right eye sustaining more damage. No surgery is required because the breaks are non-displaced. Topuria was released from the hospital and is recovering at home. He reported losing vision in his right eye after the first round and in his left eye by the end of the second round.

Topuria posted on Instagram after the loss without making excuses. He congratulated Gaethje and requested a rematch, writing that Gaethje had left his mark on his face as promised. Gaethje has expressed reluctance about an immediate rematch, stating he won decisively. A return for Topuria in early 2027 appears most likely given the extent of the injuries.