Reigning UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is expected to meet current and two-time interim 155-pound titleholder Justin Gaethje in a title unification bout on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14. Insiders have claimed this bout would potentially headline the once-in-a-lifetime event.
However, as per a new update from insider Alvaro Colmenero, this fight has not been signed yet, and the possibility of it happening at the White House has decreased.
Spanish reporter Alvaro Colmenero explains why Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje might not lock horns on June 14
Alvaro Colmenero says, “There are several geopolitical and economic arguments against the [ Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje ] fight being held at the White House.
He opined in a new video posted on X that this fight could be seen as a little too “Hispanic” for the June 14 event:
How appropriate is it to put a Hispanic-Georgian fighter in the main event? Yes, a Hispanic fighter, who has extremely high chances of knocking out the American star, in this case, the interim champion? Yes, Justin Gaethje still has a chance of winning, but this is a matter of probabilities. It’s also a matter of advising and working in the most positive way possible for American interests.”
Check out the video below:
Ilia Topuria is a heavy favorite against Justin Gaethje on any given night, with his elite knockout prowess and current form
Since the White House event is part of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations, the Topuria vs. Gaethje matchup could be reconsidered to avoid the risk of a major American star being knocked out by the Georgian-Spaniard on such a symbolic occasion.
Colmenero, therefore, finds it hard to believe that U.S. President Donald Trump and his advisors will allow this bout to headline the card or even happen at the White House.
Alvaro Colmenero also suggested that if the bout doesn’t take place on June 14, it could be targeted for International Fight Week instead.
If they decide that the Topuria vs. Gaethje fight will not take place at the White House, it would make sense for it to headline International Fight Week in July.”
