Report: UFC Planning Topuria vs Gaethje for UFC 323

A potential superfight may be on the horizon for UFC fans, as Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje is rumored to be in the works for UFC 323, scheduled to take place on December 6th. Although the bout has not yet been officially confirmed by the UFC, multiple sources have indicated that discussions are underway to book the fight — one that could deliver fireworks in the lightweight division.

Both fighters bring knockout power, relentless aggression, and championship aspirations, making this rumored matchup one of the most exciting possible fights to close out the year.

Ilia Topuria: The Undefeated Champion Hungry for More

Ilia Topuria, the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, has been unstoppable since making his way into the UFC. Known for his elite boxing, slick jiu-jitsu, and ice-cold composure, Topuria has taken the 145-pound division by storm, defeating names like Josh Emmett and former champion Alexander Volkanovski in dominant fashion.

But Topuria has been vocal about his desire to test himself beyond featherweight. Moving up to lightweight could give him the chance to prove that his power and skill set translate to a heavier, more dangerous division. Facing Justin Gaethje, one of the most explosive fighters in UFC history, would be the ultimate test.

For Topuria, a win at UFC 323 would not only solidify his status as one of the sport’s pound-for-pound best but could also open the door for a two-division championship run — something very few fighters have ever accomplished.

Justin Gaethje: The Human Highlight Reel Looking for Another Big Moment

Few fighters embody controlled chaos like Justin Gaethje. A former UFC Interim Lightweight Champion, Gaethje is beloved for his violent fighting style, iron chin, and ability to turn any bout into a classic. His resume includes legendary battles against Michael Chandler, Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier, and Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Gaethje most recently returned to action after suffering a loss in a BMF title fight earlier this year, but he remains one of the top lightweights in the world. His willingness to face anyone, anywhere, at any time makes him the perfect opponent for a rising superstar like Ilia Topuria.

Should Gaethje hand Topuria his first professional loss, it would immediately put him back in the title picture and remind the world that the “Human Highlight Reel” is still a force at 155 pounds.

Styles Make Fights: Why This Matchup is Special

This rumored fight is not just exciting on paper — it’s the kind of matchup that could produce an instant classic. Ilia Topuria is a technical, precise striker who relies on calculated pressure, sharp combinations, and an underrated grappling game. Justin Gaethje, on the other hand, thrives in chaos, using devastating leg kicks, one-punch knockout power, and a relentless forward pace to break opponents down.

Fans can expect:

• High-volume striking exchanges with real knockout potential from both fighters

• The possibility of Topuria testing Gaethje’s legendary durability with crisp boxing combinations

• Gaethje targeting Topuria’s legs early to disrupt movement and timing

• A dangerous grappling X-factor — Topuria has submission wins on his record, and Gaethje is a decorated wrestler rarely forced to use his ground skills

If the fight stays standing, it has “Fight of the Year” written all over it. If it hits the mat, the chess match could be just as compelling.

Implications for the Lightweight and Featherweight Divisions

The UFC lightweight division is always crowded with elite talent, and adding Ilia Topuria into the mix would make it even more dynamic. If Topuria defeats Gaethje, he could instantly demand a lightweight title shot — potentially facing the winner of Islam Makhachev vs Arman Tsarukyan, depending on UFC’s championship plans heading into 2025.

For featherweight, Topuria’s move would leave the division temporarily in limbo. The UFC could introduce an interim title if the reigning champion is busy pursuing fights at 155. This scenario has played out before with stars like Conor McGregor and Alexander Volkanovski when they tested higher weight classes.

For Justin Gaethje, a victory would reassert his place in the top five, proving he remains a championship-level fighter despite a career filled with wars. It could also lead to one final run toward UFC gold — a goal Gaethje has openly admitted he still wants before eventually walking away from the sport.

UFC 323: A Potentially Stacked Year-End Card

UFC 323 is expected to close out the year with a bang. Historically, the UFC’s December pay-per-view cards have featured championship fights, grudge matches, and high-profile showdowns to finish the calendar strong.

If Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje is finalized, it would instantly become one of the most anticipated bouts of the event — if not the entire year. Pairing it with another title fight or co-main event could make UFC 323 one of the biggest cards of 2025.

Fans React to the Rumors

Even without official confirmation, fight fans are already buzzing about the possibility. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, fans have been debating how the matchup might unfold:

• Some believe Topuria’s speed and precision will overwhelm Gaethje.

• Others argue that Gaethje’s leg kicks and veteran experience could neutralize the featherweight champ’s offense.

• A vocal group simply hopes the fight happens, knowing that two elite, violent strikers sharing the Octagon is almost guaranteed entertainment.

MMA analysts have also started to weigh in, with many calling the fight a risk-reward masterpiece — a young, undefeated champion testing himself against a seasoned, dangerous brawler in a division above his own.

Waiting for UFC’s Official Announcement

As of now, the UFC has not released an official statement confirming Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje for UFC 323. Negotiations for high-profile fights often involve multiple factors, including fighter readiness, contract details, medical clearances, and the strategic placement of bouts on major pay-per-view cards.

If confirmed, fans can expect promotional content, press conferences, and the usual pre-fight build-up that turns big fights into major cultural moments.

A Fight That Could Shape Two Divisions

Whether or not it’s officially signed, the idea of Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje highlights what makes the UFC special: the willingness to match elite fighters across weight classes in bouts that carry both competitive stakes and pure entertainment value.

For Topuria, it’s a chance to cement his legacy early. For Gaethje, it’s another opportunity to prove he remains among the most dangerous lightweights on the planet. For the fans, it’s a violent chess match between two fighters who never back down — and that’s exactly what makes MMA unforgettable.