Spanish fighter Elia Toporia suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of his American challenger Justin Gaethje, in the fight that brought them together early Monday morning, as part of the UFC Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Championship.
The fights of the special edition of the championship, called "UFC White House — Freedom 250," took place in the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, as part of the United States' celebrations of the 250th anniversary of independence, and in the presence of US President Donald Trump, who celebrated his 80th birthday.
The confrontation witnessed exciting twists and turns, as the two fighters exchanged strong punches and Ilia Toporia, the lightweight title holder, almost knocked his challenger down on more than one occasion with strong punches to the body during the second and third rounds and submission attempts, but Gaethje showed exceptional toughness and great experience, so he caught his breath at the end of the third and fourth rounds, directing a barrage of strong punches that caused clear bleeding and swelling in the face of the Spanish “Matador”.
Topuria underwent a medical examination in the cage and was allowed to continue fighting in the fourth round, but his team decided to stop the fight at the end of the fourth round, in order to preserve his safety, so that Gaethje could achieve one of the most prominent victories of his career and be crowned lightweight champion in an exceptional evening.
After achieving one of the biggest upsets in the history of sports, Gaethje performed his famous acrobatic move by jumping off the top of the cage before shaking hands with Trump.
America, and look at us now, we are thriving. To all current, former and future military service members, thank you very much."
Elia Taboria, 29, suffered his first defeat in his professional career so far, after 17 consecutive victories.
Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje (37 years old) achieved his twenty-eighth victory in his professional career so far, compared to 5 defeats.
