UFC lightweight champion **Justin Gaethje** recently defended **Ilia Topuria**, stating that his rival did not quit on his stool during their fight at the **UFC Freedom 250** event in June. Gaethje won the bout by TKO in the fourth round after **Topuria's corner** threw in the towel, citing the accumulation of damage suffered by their fighter. While many fans and fighters believe Topuria quit on his stool that night, Gaethje disagrees. In an interview on the podcast **One Night with Steiny**, Gaethje said that Topuria did not quit on his stool and that the decision to stop the fight was made by Topuria's corner. "He did not quit on his stool; his body was too strained to continue fighting," Gaethje explained. "It was not him who made the decision, it was his coaches, because they are there to protect him. My coaches are in my corner to protect me in situations like this." There is speculation about a potential rematch between Gaethje and Topuria. However, some believe **Arman Tsarukyan**, who has won six consecutive fights, may be a more deserving contender for the lightweight title. The **UFC** typically aims to organize the most significant fights, and if the organization believes a rematch between Gaethje and Topuria is the most important matchup in the division, it may schedule the fight. This could potentially delay Tsarukyan's chance at the title. Gaethje has not yet decided whether to continue his career or retire. He absorbed many hits during his fight against Topuria, and the decision to retire or fight one last time is ultimately his. The **UFC** is giving him time to make his choice, as it is a personal decision. Whether he returns to the octagon or steps away, the outcome will depend on Gaethje's own desires and circumstances.