Ilia Topuria hides effects of Justin Gaethje loss in first public appearance since UFC Freedom 250

Ilia Topuria was seen in public 16 days on from the first loss of his career.

On June 14, Topuria was beaten by Justin Gaethje in the lightweight title unification matchup that headlined the White House card.

‘El Matador’ suffered significant injuries in the fight that led to him not coming out of his corner for the fifth and final round.

With Topuria potentially fighting again in 2026 not off the cards, the former champion was recently photographed for the first time since his defeat.

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Ilia Topuria hides eye injuries via sunglasses in first public photos following UFC Freedom 250

Ilia Topuria received a six-month medical suspension following his first loss that could be reduced to just 60 days if he gets cleared by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

On June 30, several photos surfaced online and gave fans their first glimpse of ‘El Matador’ since he exited the Octagon on the White House lawn.

The former champion appears to be spending time with friends and family while wearing sunglasses that hide any damage that he suffered around his eyes.

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Musician Omar Montes also shared a photo of Topuria on his Instagram story, showing a gathering seated around a Burger King table.

Once again, while the UFC star’s face looks to have recovered well, his sunglasses obstruct where he suffered the most significant damage on June 14.

Coming back from these injuries shouldn’t be an issue for Topuria, though Justin Gaethje doubts whether his former opponent will be able to reach the heights that many expected him to hit.

‘The Highlight’ argued that by going into the later rounds with the former featherweight champion and beating him, future foes won’t be afraid to step inside the Octagon with him anymore.