Ilia Topuria praises Gaethje, but describes how and when she will knock out her rival at UFC Casa Branca.

Businessman suggests possible fight between Ilia Topuria (left) and Justin Gaethje . Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage

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Ilia Topuria already knows how his next fight in the octagon will end. The Spaniard faces Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC Casa Branca , scheduled for June 14th, in a duel that unifies the interim and undisputed lightweight (up to 70,3 kg) belts. In his first title defense in the category, 'El Matador' acknowledges the dangers of the American, but, due to his rival's aggressive style, anticipates a short fight.

In an interview with KolmeneroMMA, Topuria assessed the challenge as tough, but highlighted that he sees a difference in skill level between them. The champion also pointed out that Gaethje's fighting style, known for not backing down and seeking open exchanges, tends to accelerate the pace of the fight.

Given these characteristics, the Spaniard believes the fight is unlikely to last many rounds and expressed confidence in a finish within the opening minutes.

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“It’s a tough fight, but at the same time there are levels to it. Based on his fighting style, on how he presents himself in each fight, honestly, I think it will end quickly. I don’t see him as someone who will exchange blows and retreat, or fight by moving backwards. So I think it will be in the first round,” said Ilia Topuria.

Ilia Topuria updates her record and adds a victory over Gaethje, even before the fight.

Topuria celebrates her UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

Ilia Topuria 's confidence for UFC Casa Branca is so high that the champion couldn't wait for the result to update his record. Announcing the fight on social media, the Spaniard shared an image of a poster with his face alongside Justin Gaethje 's.

In the caption of the post, despite currently having 17 wins and no losses in his career, 'El Matador' wrote '18-0', accompanied by a red rose emoji, a symbol that has become a hallmark of his celebrations inside the octagon.

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