Ilia Topuria shuts down Justin Gaethje’s personal divorce dig: “He’s not going to have my respect”

Ilia Topuria has responded to Justin Gaethje taking a dig at his divorce.

Gaethje became the interim UFC Lightweight Champion after defeating Paddy Pimblett back in January, and it was Topuria’s hiatus that led to an interim title fight. “El Matador” took a small break from pro MMA competition, as he was dealing with a messy divorce from Giorgina Uzcategui. Topuria has children and was able to reach a custody settlement, which ended his hiatus.

Recently, Gaethje took a shot at Topuria’s divorce, saying he understands why Uzcategui left the UFC Lightweight Champion. During episode one of UFC Freedom 250 Embedded, Topuria fired back at Gaethje with a grim prediction for their June 14 showdown (via MMAFighting).

“Take this, Justin [shoots double birds],” Topuria said. “Actually, I thought he was a great guy. But since he crossed the personal line, he’s not going to have my respect; he’s not going to have my team’s respect.

“All I’m going to need is 2 minutes in the octagon with you, and I’m going to put you to sleep in front of your whole family, your country, in front of everyone.”

Topuria and Gaethje had been cordial prior to “The Highlight’s” divorce comments. Things changed when Topuria released a mock funeral video and featured a picture of Gaethje before sniffing a flower. Gaethje wasn’t amused by his UFC Freedom 250 opponent’s antics.

Going into the historic event on the White House lawn, Topuria is a sizable betting favorite. “El Matador” is hoping to score a quick knockout victory and possibly move on to a super fight with reigning UFC Welterweight Champion Islam Makhachev. Some feel Topuria would still have unfinished business at 155 pounds even if he starches Gaethje early.

What do you make of the sudden animosity between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje? Does it feel forced, or is it genuine? Share your take in the comments below.