Justin Gaethje’s longtime coach Trevor Wittman believes a single decision may have completely altered the outcome of the UFC White House main event.
According to Wittman, Topuria had Gaethje in serious trouble during the second round after landing a devastating body shot that visibly hurt the future champion. However, instead of continuing to pressure Gaethje on the feet, Topuria chose to engage on the ground, giving his opponent valuable time to recover.
Wittman described the moment as a major turning point in the fight. Once Gaethje survived the danger, momentum gradually shifted in his favor as the bout progressed. The coach credited Gaethje’s toughness, experience, and ability to stay composed under pressure for helping him weather the storm.
As the fight entered the later rounds, Gaethje’s game plan began paying dividends. His movement, striking accuracy, and relentless pressure wore down the previously undefeated champion, who was dealing with significant facial damage and vision issues. The contest was ultimately stopped before the fifth round, handing Topuria the first loss of his professional career.
While the debate continues over what might have happened had Topuria stayed aggressive after the body shot, Wittman remains convinced that the decision gave Gaethje the opening he needed to change the course of the fight.
