Jon Anik hints at ‘internal conversations’ about Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria 2

UFC commentator Jon Anik has indicated that a rematch between Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria could be the next scheduled bout for the fighters. According to reports from MMA Mania and Bloody Elbow, Anik cited 'internal conversations' as the basis for this possibility. MMA Fighting further reports that Anik believes this specific matchup is what is going to happen next in the organization. This development comes amidst uncertainty regarding the lightweight division's immediate future, as Yahoo Sports reports that champion Justin Gaethje will not be fighting for the remainder of 2026. The coverage of this potential bout is being led by specialized combat sports outlets including MMA Fighting, MMA Junkie, MMA Mania, and Bloody Elbow.

These publications are focusing heavily on the statements made by Jon Anik regarding the UFC's internal planning. While the focus remains on the prospect of Topuria and Gaethje meeting for a second time, Yahoo Sports is emphasizing the broader implications for the lightweight division given Gaethje's absence from the octagon for the rest of the calendar year. To understand the significance of this potential rematch, coverage from MMA Junkie points toward the history between the two athletes. Specifically, the outlet highlights how a knockout loss at UFC 300 served to help fulfill the legacy of Justin Gaethje. This previous encounter establishes the competitive stakes and the historical context that makes a second fight a point of interest for both the organization and the fans.

The legacy of Gaethje is being framed through the lens of that iconic defeat as the UFC considers how to move forward with its champion. Future developments will depend on the official confirmation of these 'internal conversations' mentioned by Jon Anik. Observers are watching to see if the UFC formally announces Justin Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria 2, and how the organization manages the lightweight division while Gaethje remains inactive for the rest of 2026. The timeline for this rematch remains unconfirmed, but the current reporting suggests it is a primary consideration for the promotion's upcoming scheduling.