Topuria makes weight: White House fight is official

It’s official: the fight is on.

At least from a sporting standpoint. Ilia Topuria successfully made weight Friday morning, coming in at 155 pounds to officially confirm his first lightweight title defense against Justin Gaethje, who also weighed in at 155. The headline bout for Saturday’s UFC Freedom 250 card (2 a.m. ET, Max) is now locked in.

Topuria makes weight

Both fighters looked in outstanding shape during the official weigh-in at the host hotel.

Topuria brought the room to life when he emerged following a brief pause in proceedings after Bo Nickal’s weigh-in. “El Matador” walked straight to the scale with a serious expression and complete focus. After stepping on, he glanced skyward and then got the confirmation he wanted. Weight made.

The champion looked lean, powerful and fully prepared for his first defense of the lightweight belt.

Gaethje briefly created some tension in the room. After stepping onto the scale, there was a noticeable delay before officials announced his weight. The American stared intently at the UFC staff member adjusting the scale, and the room fell silent until the verdict finally arrived.

“155 pounds.”

Only then did everyone, including Gaethje himself, seem to relax.

The rest of the card also successfully hit their respective marks.

Michael Chandler, looking exceptionally sharp, was the first fighter to step onto the scale. Diego Lopes arrived wearing his trademark cowboy hat, while Derrick Lewis provided the comic relief of the morning. Like Gaethje, Lewis had to wait a few extra seconds for his weight to be announced, prompting him to jokingly gesture his impatience as the room laughed along.

With all the major names making weight, UFC Freedom 250 is officially set for Saturday night’s historic event at the White House.

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