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Gaethje Stops Topuria, Becomes Oldest Undisputed Lightweight Champion

6/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On June 14, 2026, UFC lightweight Justin Gaethje stopped undefeated champion Ilia Topuria by corner-stoppage TKO in round four.
Topuria’s corner threw in the towel after he could not see out of a swollen eye, prompting his transport to a hospital for monitoring.
The win made Gaethje the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, the oldest 155-lb title holder at 37, and left him ahead 39-37 on the judges’ cards.

History

Historical Context

In January 2007 Randy Couture announced his return and, at 43, defeated Tim Sylvia by unanimous decision at UFC 68 on March 3, becoming the oldest UFC heavyweight champion and proving veterans could still capture titles. That precedent echoed on June 14 2026 when 37-year-old lightweight Justin Gaethje stopped undefeated Ilia Topuria to claim the undisputed belt, illustrating the lasting impact of Couture’s 2007 milestone.

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Story summary

On June 14, 2026, UFC lightweight Justin Gaethje stopped undefeated champion Ilia Topuria by corner-stoppage TKO in round four.
Topuria’s corner threw in the towel after he could not see out of a swollen eye, prompting his transport to a hospital for monitoring.
The win made Gaethje the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, the oldest 155-lb title holder at 37, and left him ahead 39-37 on the judges’ cards.

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