Jon Anik: Ilia Topuria accusing Gaethje of glove tampering a push for rematch

Jon Anik remains skeptical about Ilia Topuria's accusations that Justin Gaethje tampered with his gloves during their UFC Freedom 250 title fight. Topuria sustained broken orbital bones in the bout, which led him to claim The Highlight had placed something into Gaethje's gloves. However, Andy Foster, one of the three referees at UFC Freedom 250, confirmed to USA TODAY Sports that Gaethje's gloves and wraps adhered to all regulations.

Jon Anik recently disclosed that there are internal UFC discussions regarding an immediate rematch between Gaethje (28-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC) and Topuria, which could explain why Topuria made those claims. Gaethje acknowledged his natural abilities, noting that even after his victory over Topuria, people who have shaken his hand recognize his genetic gifts.

Topuria's statements may be seen as a strategy to secure a rematch or could simply be a reflection of his dissatisfaction with the outcome. Gaethje dismissed Topuria's claims, emphasizing the significant damage he has inflicted on his opponents in the past. However, Gaethje later appeared to reconsider the possibility of a rematch after initially dismissing the idea.