Ilia Topuria releases first statement since UFC White House defeat

Ilia Topuria praised Justin Gaethje after losing the lightweight crown by fourth-round technical knockout on Sunday, marking the first defeat of his professional career.In the UFC White House headliner, Topuria's corner stopped the bout, and he later detailed on Instagram vision loss in both eyes during the fight. Justin Gaethje's performance drew respect from Ilia Topuria, who wrote there were no excuses and that it was Gaethje's night.Topuria entered Sunday on a nine-fight UFC run that included winning featherweight and lightweight titles and finishes of Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira. He indicated plans to heal and pursue a rematch with Gaethje.