
Ilia Topuria had always been praised for his extraordinary performances in the octagon. Meanwhile, UFC commentator Joe Rogan had always been a fan of Topuria and praised his dominant run. Recently, Rogan talked about how “El Matador” is risking his belt by fighting at the White House card.
The UFC commentator had high praise for the lightweight champion for taking a fight against Justin Gaethje at the White House card. Rogan mentioned that there would be a lot of humidity and bugs, as the fight is outside, and defending the belt would be very difficult. Talking about it in a recent video, the 58-year-old said:
“I mean, Ilia Topuria might not just be one of the best right now. He could be one of the best to ever do it. It’s very possible that he goes down in history as an all-time great. He’s so good, and for him to have to defend a world title outside, with bugs, humidity, and heat.”
Joe Rogan Praises Ilia Topuria's Willingness to Risk Everything and Defend His Title Outdoors
— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) June 2, 2026
"I mean, Ilia Topuria might not just be one of the best right now — he could be one of the best to ever do it. It's very possible that he goes down in history as an all-time great.… pic.twitter.com/h79fLn0DxN
The UFC commentator called the Spanish fighter one of the most talented fighters in the sport today and a potential all-time great. Now everybody is talking about the Topuria vs. Gaethje fight, as it is just days away, and many MMA stars heavily favor “El Matador.”
Alexander Volkanovski knows better than most how dangerous Ilia Topuria can be, as “El Matador” had already defeated him via knockout. Ahead of Topuria’s title defense against Justin Gaethje at the White House card, Volkanovski revealed why the Spanish fighter is super dangerous for Gaethje. In a recent video, the featherweight champion said:
“Ilia’s got a great eye, he’s very sharp, and he’s got power. Ilia can put Gaethje’s lights out. It just depends what Gaethje turns out like. If he’s overly aggressive thinking that I need to just take my chance straight away. He could maybe get the shot, but he could be lights out very, very quick.”
Alexander Volkanovski praises Ilia Topuria’s sharpness and timing ahead of the Justin Gaethje fight
— FREAK.MMA (@FREAKMMA1) May 29, 2026
“Ilia’s got a great eye, he’s very sharp, and he’s got power. Ilia can put Gaethje’s lights out. It just depends what Gaethje turns out like. If he’s overly aggressive thinking… pic.twitter.com/CHNu7RsS5D
Volkanovski thinks Topuria is very dangerous because he hits hard and picks the right moments to attack. He believes Justin Gaethje could get into trouble if he rushes in too fast. Still, Gaethje is working hard and believes he can shock everyone. Now both fighters are getting ready, and the cage will decide who is right.
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