Ilia Topuria, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, is known for his intense training sessions, and his sparring partners are bearing the brunt of his power. As Topuria prepares to face Justin Gaethje on June 14 at UFC Freedom 250, his training camp is in full swing.
Recent footage shared online showcases Topuria’s formidable striking. In a YouTube video on his channel, Topuria’s training partners revealed the sheer force behind his punches. One partner confessed, “Sparring with Ilia is crazy. We had the opportunity to feel the power of his fist. My liver is fu*ked up after the session. It’s an amazing experience, and I think it will level up our skills to the maximum.”
These partners are confident in Topuria’s ability to defeat Gaethje, predicting a first-round finish. “All the time I felt the pressure from Ilia, I think he finishes [Gaethje] in the first round,” they stated.
Arman Tsarukyan Expresses Frustration as Backup Fighter
Meanwhile, top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has been named the official backup fighter for the UFC Freedom 250 main event. While this position ensures he’ll be compensated and could lead to a future title shot, Tsarukyan admitted on the JAXXON Podcast that serving as a backup is a difficult role. “I’m excited that if something happens, they’ll call me. I’m the first guy who is going to jump in, and I’m getting ready for that. I’m already on my diet, but it always sucks to be backup, but now I have to do this,” he said.