UFC Lightweight Title Race: Gaethje vs. Topuria Not Happening

Ali Abdelaziz has shut the door, at least for now, on one of the UFC’s most talked‑about immediate rematches.

The manager of UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje insists Ilia Topuria will not be the next man across the cage from his fighter, despite growing speculation that the promotion would run back their June clash at UFC Freedom 250 — a night when Gaethje stunned many by upsetting the then-favored Topuria.

Speaking on Submission Radio, Abdelaziz cut through the noise.

“He’s not fighting Justin Gaethje next… I believe Justin Gaethje will beat him nine out of 10 time. You know why? Justin have his number… this fight will never happen. I can tell you this,” Abdelaziz said.

No teasing. No “we’ll see.” Just a flat denial that Gaethje vs. Topuria 2 is on deck.

Tsarukyan’s Moment Closing In

If Abdelaziz is right, that stance rips open a clear lane for Arman Tsarukyan, a contender many believe has been stuck in the queue for far too long.

Tsarukyan is coming off a vicious first-round KO of Mauricio Ruffy in the co-main event of UFC 331, the kind of finish that doesn’t just win a fight — it demands attention. That victory extended his winning streak to six, a run built on consistency, danger, and the feeling that he’s been circling the title picture without being allowed to land.

On merit, his case is hard to argue with. Six straight wins. A highlight-reel knockout in his latest outing. A style that travels against anyone in the division. If the UFC passed him over again now, with the belt potentially free from an immediate Gaethje–Topuria rerun, it would be a stretch to justify.

The matchup writes itself: Gaethje, the chaos king who finally climbed to the top, against Tsarukyan, the surging technician who has been quietly stacking names and finishes.

UFC Holds the Final Card

Abdelaziz can state his position as bluntly as he likes, but the final call will not be his. It never is.

The UFC will decide whether to chase the quick-hit drama of a Gaethje–Topuria rematch or reward the grinding, undeniable rise of Tsarukyan. If the promotion wants to book Gaethje vs. Topuria 2, it will happen. If it chooses to pivot, Tsarukyan’s long-awaited title shot is suddenly there to be taken.

One manager has made his stance clear. Now the question shifts to the matchmakers’ room: do they lean into star power and revenge, or finally let the division’s most deserving contender take his swing at the lightweight crown?