Dana White assumes Ilia Topuria suffered broken orbital at UFC Freedom 250: “He’s busted up”

Dana White can’t confirm that Ilia Topuria suffered a broken orbital bone, but it’s his assumption.

Topuria looked to continue his unbeaten streak when he collided with Justin Gaethje in the UFC Freedom 250 main event. This was a title unification bout as Topuria was the main champion, while Gaethje held interim gold. It didn’t take long for Topuria’s face to get marked up but he was still having success early and moving forward.

Eventually, Gaethje forced Topuria to move back as “The Highlight” kept landing hard punches. Topuria’s eyes were busted and it appeared the Octagon-side doctor was ready to call off the fight. The bout continued, but Topuria did not make it out for the fifth round.

Speaking to reporters during the UFC Freedom 250 post-fight press conference, White confirmed that Topuria was transported to a hospital. The UFC boss also believes Topuria suffered a broken orbital (via MMAJunkie).

“We literally had him get out of the octagon before the hand was even raised and sent him to the hospital,” White said. “Ilia’s in the hospital. He’s busted up. I’m not a doctor, but his eye looked like he probably has a broken orbital. I don’t know that; that’s not a fact. I’m just assuming.”

White isn’t thinking about what’s next for Topuria other than making sure the now former UFC Lightweight Champion heals up.

“My plans for him are to go home and rest and recover – take his time,” White said. “Tonight was a rough night for him. I just want to make sure he’s healthy and good and not even thinking about him fighting again. I just want him to go home and relax and rest and heal.”

It’s the first loss in Topuria’s pro MMA career. “El Matador” had been on a tear, knocking out the likes of Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira.

Where does Ilia Topuria go from here? Who would you match him up against once he fully recovers? Play matchmaker below.