Coach reveals Justin Gaethje's 'secret weapon' for duel against Ilia Topuria at UFC Casa Branca

Justin gaethje celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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the american Justin gaethje He has already begun the final adjustments for one of the most important fights of his career and is betting on a different strategy to try and surprise his opponent. Ilia TopuriaThe duel takes place on June 14th in Washington DC (USA). UFC White HouseAnd it's for the unification of the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg). According to his team, the preparation includes strengthening his wrestling skills.

Known for his aggressive style and open striking, Gaethje seeks to improve his game plan at a crucial moment. The idea is not to change his essence as a fighter, but to expand his possibilities within the octagon and arrive even more complete for the confrontation against the Georgian-Spanish fighter, another powerful athlete in stand-up fighting.

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The person responsible for detailing this plan is Ben Cherrington, the American's wrestling coach, who explained how the work has been developed and the importance of this evolution for the final stretch of preparation.

“As we’ve said before, Justin doesn’t use wrestling offensively, but we want to make sure he has that in mind, in case it’s necessary. I think we saw that in the match against Paddy (Pimblett). He used it at times, which was positive. That’s the main objective in terms of technique. Furthermore, the conditioning that comes from wrestling is irreplaceable.”

"This is something very valuable in his fights and explains why he's dangerous for five rounds. We're going to continue working on this, developing this conditioning so that he has this option until the end of the fight. And, of course, ensure that, technically, these skills are ready should he need them," the coach explained in a video on the athlete's YouTube channel.

🤼‍♂️🤔 Justin gaethje works on his offensive wrestling which he rarely does in case he'll need to use it against Ilia Topuria:

⚡️ Coach: “Justin doesn't utilize his offensive wrestling usually, but we want to make sure it's in his back pocket in case he needs it.”

🎥… pic.twitter.com/luc6VC71OY

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 5, 2026

Justin Gaethje's current situation

Justin gaethje He is experiencing a decisive moment in his career. Currently the interim champion of the division, he is attempting to win the undisputed title for the first time after two previous stints as the provisional champion.

With the conquest of the interim title against Paddy Pimblett At UFC 324 in January, the American became the first fighter in history to achieve this feat twice. At 37 years old, Gaethje is seeking the 'highlight' that could be one of the last in his impressive career in the world's most famous octagon.