Ilia Topuria Pushes Justin Gaethje at Lincoln Memorial Ahead of UFC Freedom 250

Ilia Topuria shoved Justin Gaethje in front of the Lincoln Memorial during the final press conference ahead of UFC’s historic event at the White House on Sunday.

After both athletes predicted victory in their upcoming unification bout, 29‑year‑old lightweight champion Ilia Topuria shoved interim titleholder Justin Gaethje, who simply laughed it off.

As UFC President Dana White stepped in with an amused grin to separate the two, Gaethje remarked, “Look at where we are, take in this magnificent setting—why behave like an animal?”

Earlier, the Georgian‑Spanish fighter told the 37‑year‑old Gaethje that he intended to knock him out in the opening round.

“I know I’m the best in the world,” Topuria declared. “In two days we’ll occupy the same space—prove me wrong if you can.”

The press conference took place in Washington, D.C., two days prior to the event on the White House’s South Lawn.

The unique event, dubbed UFC Freedom 250, is scheduled for President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday, coinciding with celebrations of the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The Lincoln Memorial served as a striking backdrop, with the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets presenting a guard of honor before the fighters took their seats.

Although Topuria and Gaethje exchanged heated words, there was minimal interaction between France’s Ciryl Gane and Brazil’s Alex Pereira, who will meet for the interim heavyweight title in the co‑main event.

Should Pereira emerge victorious, he would become the first UFC athlete to capture titles in three different weight classes, having previously held the middleweight and light‑heavyweight belts.

Earlier, Topuria labeled Pereira a GOAT—greatest of all time—citing his accomplishments inside the Octagon.

“He’s already a goat,” Topuria said. “One of many in this sport, and he will undoubtedly join that elite list.”

The press conference was repeatedly interrupted by American heavyweight Josh Hokit; at one point Topuria requested the UFC mute his microphone.

Source link