MIXED MARTIAL ARTS: Gaethje shocks Topuria to win UFC lightweight crown at White House event

WASHINGTON — American Justin Gaethje pulled off a dramatic comeback to defeat Ilia Topuria and capture the UFC lightweight title at Sunday’s “UFC Freedom 250” event held on the South Lawn of the White House.

After Topuria controlled the opening two rounds in a closely contested bout, Gaethje shifted momentum in the third with a powerful right hand that visibly stunned the Spaniard. He followed it with a relentless series of jabs and combinations that left Topuria’s face swollen and bloodied.

Topuria appeared to be struggling with his vision and was examined by the ringside physician before continuing into the fourth round. However, his corner ultimately stopped the fight before the start of the final round.

“I cannot even believe it. I knew I was going to have to get through the first round. His skills are unmatched when he’s fresh,” Gaethje said. “But my durability, my tenacity, and my heart were going to carry me through.”

The bout headlined the first professional sporting event ever staged at the White House and formed part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s celebrations marking the country’s 250th anniversary.

In the co-main event, France’s Ciryl Gane delivered a dominant performance against Brazil’s Alex Pereira, securing a second-round knockout to claim the interim UFC heavyweight title.

Pereira, a former light heavyweight and middleweight champion, had been attempting to become the first UFC fighter to win titles in three divisions after moving up to heavyweight. -Reporting by Aadi Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Jamie Freed/Reuters