American fighter Justin Gaethje turned the tables on Ilia Topuria to secure a shocking victory and capture the UFC lightweight title at the "UFC Freedom 250" event held on the White House lawn.
After Topuria (17-1) narrowly won the first two rounds on Sunday night, Gaethje (28-5) stunned the Spanish fighter with a powerful right hand, followed by a series of brutal jabs that left his opponent's face swollen and bloodied.
Topuria appeared to have vision issues and was examined by a doctor before continuing into the fourth round, but his corner threw in the towel ahead of the final round.
"I can't even believe it … I knew I had to get through the first round, his skills are unmatched when he's fresh," Gaethje said. "But my durability, my toughness and my heart got me through."
The fight headlined the first professional sporting event held at the White House, a key part of U.S. President Donald Trump's celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary.
In the co-main event, France's Ciryl Gane dominated Brazil's Alex Pereira before winning by knockout in the second round to become the UFC interim heavyweight champion. Pereira, a former light heavyweight and middleweight champion, was seeking to become the first fighter to win titles in three weight classes after moving up to heavyweight.
