Jon Jones praises Topuria and points to the first step in the Spaniard's comeback in the UFC.

Topuria was punished by Gaethje in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Jon Jones there is no doubt that Ilia Topuria He'll turn things around in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. The Spaniard entered the main event of... UFC White House, held on June 14th, and, despite being the big favorite of the night, ended up defeated by Justin gaethjeHe was forced to abandon the fight between the fourth and fifth rounds after suffering hard blows that compromised his performance. The result cost him the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg), but, in 'Bones' view, it could represent an important step in the fighter's evolution.

In an interview with 'Red Corner MMA', Jones highlighted that he heard good things about Topuria's attitude after the defeat. According to the former champion, the Spaniard showed humility in acknowledging that he didn't have a good performance, something he considers fundamental for a solid recovery and a healthier return to the octagon.

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“What I heard is that Ilia is humble, he’s honest, he recognizes that he simply didn’t perform well. That’s step number one to getting back in the ring in a healthy way,” said Jones.

Justin Gaethje transformed Ilia Topuria's face at UFC Casa Branca

Justin gaethje won Ilia Topuria No. UFC White HousePhoto: UFC News / X

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After a balanced first round, Ilia Topuria He returned for the second half determined to justify the favoritism shown at five to one against Justin gaethje No. UFC White HouseDespite landing some good punches and coming close to finishing the fight, the American held on, and the Spaniard returned for the third round already showing clear signs of fatigue.

With Topuria slowing down, Gaethje began to find his range with precise jabs and even managed to stagger the former champion with a powerful straight punch. Gradually, the Spaniard's face became deformed from the accumulated damage, until, in the break between the fourth and fifth rounds, his team opted to stop the fight.

After the fight, it was confirmed that Topuria suffered fractures to the orbital bones of her face and to her nose.