Getting personal: Justin Gaethje takes shot at Ilia Topuria’s divorce

Justin Gaethje criticized Ilia Topuria in a Fox Sports Australia interview, heightening tensions before their June 14 main event at the planned UFC White House card amid concerns about staging an outdoor event. In discussing Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria, the interim lightweight champion questioned Topuria's public persona and referenced the fighter's divorce. Gaethje also cited his five-round win over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 and likened Topuria's confidence to Pimblett's. Topuria is slated to return for the first time since June 2025 after settling a lawsuit with ex-wife Giorgina Uzcategui. Gaethje said heat, humidity, and insects will be shared challenges and added sauna sessions to acclimate while noting weather remains uncertain.