Ilia Topuria has officially made weight for his upcoming lightweight title defense against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250. The Spanish-Georgian star stepped on the scale Friday morning at exactly 155 pounds, confirming that the highly anticipated showdown will take place as scheduled.
Saturday’s UFC Freedom 250 card, airing at 2 a.m. ET on Max, will now feature Topuria’s first defense of his lightweight belt against Gaethje, who also weighed in at the 155-pound limit. The successful weigh-ins solidify the main event, much to the excitement of fight fans.
Topuria and Gaethje shine at weigh-ins
The official weigh-in, held at the host hotel, showcased both fighters in peak condition. After a brief pause following Bo Nickal’s weigh-in, Topuria entered the room with a focused, serious demeanor. Nicknamed “El Matador,” the champion approached the scale confidently, glanced upward, and awaited the confirmation he needed — successfully making weight.
Topuria appeared lean and powerful, a clear indication of his readiness to defend the lightweight title.
In contrast, Justin Gaethje introduced a moment of suspense when he stepped on the scale. A subtle delay in the announcement of his weight created tension among the crowd and officials. The American fighter fixed his gaze on the UFC staff adjusting the scale, holding the room in silence until the official weight was revealed: 155 pounds. Only then did relief wash over the room, including Gaethje himself.
The remainder of the UFC Freedom 250 roster also met their weight requirements, with fighters like Michael Chandler presenting themselves in sharp condition. With all athletes officially cleared, the event is set to deliver an action-packed night of mixed martial arts competition.