Tom Aspinall believes Ilia Topuria is operating on a different level from the rest of the UFC lightweight division and expects the undefeated champion to emerge victorious against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 this weekend.
Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) is set to defend his lightweight title against interim champion Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC) in the main event of the UFC's historic card at the White House on Sunday. While Aspinall acknowledged Gaethje’s strengths and credentials, the reigning UFC heavyweight champion ultimately sees Topuria as too much to handle.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aspinall praised Gaethje’s all-around skill set but suggested the former interim lightweight champion may no longer be at his peak.
“I think that Justin Gaethje is a good fighter in his own right,” Aspinall said. “I think he's past his best, to be honest. Carries a lot of power, (he’s) got really good grappling as well. I just don't think that anybody is anywhere close to the level of Ilia Topuria right now.”
Gaethje has remained one of the lightweight division’s most dangerous contenders thanks to his knockout power, durability, and aggressive fighting style. However, Aspinall believes Topuria’s overall skill level separates him from the rest of the field.
“The only thing is, I think that Gaethje is a little bit more active, obviously fights more often, but I don't think that makes a difference,” Aspinall said. “Someone like Ilia Topuria, to be honest, I think the activity is a good thing, but it also puts a lot of miles on the clock being so active, especially in title fights.”
Despite favoring Topuria, Aspinall stopped short of completely writing off Gaethje’s chances, pointing to several areas where the interim champion could pose problems.
“I do think that Gaethje’s got a chance,” Aspinall said. “He’s a tough guy, punches really hard, good grappling, good standup as well, good chopping low kicks that he does, good uppercuts, good overhand right, good takedown defense.”
Still, Aspinall expects Topuria to successfully unify the lightweight titles and extend his undefeated record.
“But I think that Topuria’s way too much for him,” Aspinall added.
