Longtime UFC veteran encourages Ilia Topuria to make quick return

Former UFC light heavyweight Anthony Smith says Ilia Topuria should return to action quickly after his first career defeat, citing the mental challenge of long layoffs following high-profile losses.The comments follow Justin Gaethje's upset win on Sunday, when he seized the undisputed lightweight title from Topuria in the UFC White House main event. Smith discussed the aftermath on The Ariel Helwani Show, noting Topuria's pre-fight first-round knockout predictions and celebratory plans.Gaethje bloodied Topuria early, endured a brief second-round rally, then dominated until Topuria's corner stopped the bout in the fourth round—securing the belt on his third attempt.Smith said inactivity could "mess with you mentally" and suggested a return by year's end.