Justin Gaethje breaks his silence: ‘I want Topuria in New York, no one else!’

The UFC landscape could be in for another electrifying clash as Justin Gaethje, one of the most ferocious lightweights in the promotion, has called out reigning featherweight champion Ilia Topuria for a potential showdown this November at Madison Square Garden. The challenge, laid down with typical Gaethje bravado, has already sent shockwaves through the MMA world.

Gaethje Eyes the Hottest Name in the Sport

Speaking in a recent interview, Gaethje didn’t mince words when talking about Topuria, who is fresh off his spectacular victory over Alexander Volkanovski earlier this year.

“He’s the man of the moment, and I want to fight him,” Gaethje declared. “If you’re the best, you have to fight the best, and right now, he’s the guy everyone is talking about.”

Gaethje, renowned for his violent fighting style and never-back-down mentality, has always sought out the toughest opponents. With lightweight opportunities in flux and title shots unclear, Gaethje’s interest in a super fight against Topuria reflects his hunger to stay relevant and challenge himself.

Ilia Topuria: From Featherweight King to Lightweight Threat?

Ilia Topuria’s meteoric rise has been one of the most captivating stories of 2025. After dismantling Volkanovski and defending his featherweight title, Topuria has expressed interest in testing himself in other divisions.

While he hasn’t officially announced a move to lightweight, rumors have swirled that Topuria has been eyeing marquee fights that transcend weight classes. A fight against Gaethje at Madison Square Garden, one of combat sports’ most iconic venues, fits that narrative perfectly.

Topuria’s well-rounded game, featuring knockout power and elite grappling, would pose an intriguing contrast to Gaethje’s brawling style and relentless pressure.

Madison Square Garden: The Perfect Stage

Madison Square Garden has hosted some of the most legendary fights in UFC history, from Conor McGregor’s double-title win to Kamaru Usman’s epic battles. A Gaethje vs. Topuria clash could headline the UFC’s annual November card at the iconic New York venue, following in the footsteps of historic bouts.

Gaethje emphasized the allure of the stage:

“MSG is where legends are made. I’ve fought everywhere, but I’ve never headlined there. What better way than against a guy like Topuria, who’s on fire right now?”

What’s at Stake for Gaethje and Topuria?

For Gaethje, a victory over Topuria would cement his legacy as one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history. Though he has come up short in two lightweight title fights, defeating a surging champion from another division would reinvigorate his title aspirations.

For Topuria, moving up and defeating a former interim lightweight champion would only add to his already impressive resume. It could also set him up for a future shot at the lightweight belt, further elevating his pound-for-pound status.

Fan Reactions: Hype Building Fast

As soon as Gaethje’s comments hit social media, fans began speculating about how the fight might play out. Would Topuria’s technical striking and submission game neutralize Gaethje’s pressure? Or would Gaethje’s leg kicks, granite chin, and relentless pace overwhelm the featherweight champion?

Pound-for-pound implications, stylistic fireworks, and the prestige of MSG all combine to make this a must-watch fight.

Dana White Yet to Confirm, but Momentum Building

UFC President Dana White has not officially commented on Gaethje’s callout, but given the fan interest and Gaethje’s history of delivering epic fights, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the promotion push for this blockbuster bout.

White has previously spoken highly of both men, calling Gaethje “one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history” and Topuria “a future superstar.”

A Stacked November Card in the Works?

If the fight is made, it could serve as the main event or co-main event of an already loaded November card. Other rumored matchups include:

• Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title.

• Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev 2 for the light heavyweight crown.

• Potential bantamweight and women’s strawweight title defenses.

Gaethje’s Career at a Crossroads

At 36 years old, Gaethje knows his championship window is closing. Despite capturing the interim lightweight title in 2020, he’s yet to unify the belts and has suffered crushing defeats in his biggest fights.

Still, his resume includes thrilling wins over Dustin Poirier, Michael Chandler, Tony Ferguson, and Rafael Fiziev, and his fan-friendly style makes him a perpetual main event attraction.

A win over Topuria could reignite a final run at gold, or at least give him one of the biggest victories of his career.

Topuria’s Chance to Cement His Superstardom

For Topuria, the fight is about more than just moving up in weight—it’s about legacy. Beating a proven lightweight contender in Gaethje would silence critics who claim his dominance is confined to featherweight.

It would also put him on a collision course with lightweight champ Islam Makhachev, creating a potential pound-for-pound super fight down the line.

What’s Next?

Negotiations are likely underway behind the scenes. Both fighters have expressed interest in fighting at Madison Square Garden, and the timing aligns with the UFC’s traditional return to New York in November.

If the fight is booked, expect fireworks. Gaethje never backs down, and Topuria has yet to taste defeat. Two explosive finishers, one historic venue—this could be a fight-of-the-year contender.

Stay tuned for further updates as this potential mega-fight develops.