Ali Abdelaziz has dismissed speculation that Justin Gaethje could face Ilia Topuria in a rematch, insisting the former champion will not get another shot at the UFC lightweight title next.
Gaethje defeated Topuria at the White House earlier this summer to become the undisputed UFC lightweight champion. Topuria has since reignited talk of a rematch, most recently making accusations on social media that Gaethje loaded his gloves for their fight.
Abdelaziz, who manages Gaethje, addressed the situation during an appearance on Submission Radio this week and made it clear that he does not expect the rematch to happen.
“He's not fighting Justin Gaethje next. He didn't call the shot. You know, he's not. Listen, you know, only one guy in the past did that. His name is Conor McGregor. And (Ilia is) not Conor McGregor. And nobody is.”
Abdelaziz also questioned whether Topuria has what it takes to defeat Gaethje in a second meeting, claiming his client has figured out the former champion.
“I believe Justin Gaethje will beat him nine out of ten times. You know why? Justin (has) his number. I don't think he can beat Justin Gaethje. He thinks he can, and he should think he can. He was close (to) beating Justin Gaethje but he didn't.”
According to Abdelaziz, the biggest issue is that Gaethje has little incentive to give Topuria another opportunity. With the lightweight title now in his possession, Abdelaziz believes a rematch would offer the champion little upside.
“At the end of the day, this fight will never happen. I can tell you this…Justin Gaethje has zero to gain (by beating) Ilia Topuria. Zero.”
