Jon Anik reveals why Ilia Topuria may have accused Justin Gaethje’s of tampered gloves amid comeback talks

Jon Anik believes Ilia Topuria’s comments about Justin Gaethje’s gloves could be part of a bigger plan to build interest in a rematch. The UFC commentator has suggested that Topuria may be using the controversy to create a storyline around a second fight with Gaethje. The two fighters could meet again after their first bout at UFC Freedom 250.Anik also revealed that there are already “internal conversations” about a possible Gaethje vs. Topuria 2. While Topuria has expressed interest in returning to action, Gaethje has also made it clear that he would welcome another meeting. The developing storyline could give the UFC a major fight to consider for the lightweight division.Jon Anik explains why Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje 2 could happenJustin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria by fourth-round TKO at the White House on June 14, 2026. The victory made Gaethje the undisputed UFC lightweight champion and handed Topuria the first defeat of his professional career.The fight has continued to generate attention because of Topuria’s later comments about Gaethje’s gloves. The former champion suggested that something unusual may have been involved.Topuria recently returned to social media after completing his medical tests. He wrote on X, “Final medical tests done. I’m back.”He later took another shot at Gaethje and referenced the glove controversy.“To all the clowns who’ve been talking s–t and counting me out this whole time, here I am. Now let’s see who’s got the balls. Thanks to everyone for the support. Next time I’ll make sure they check Justin’s gloves so he doesn’t put anything weird on them. See you soon,” he wrote on X.Gaethje responded to the accusation, “94 days and the best you could come up with is a lame excuse. As terrible as your last performance. Do better kid.”There have been no public findings from UFC officials showing that Gaethje’s gloves contained anything unusual. The claims remain unproven.Anik now believes the comments could serve another purpose. In his view, Topuria may be helping create a storyline that could make a rematch more attractive.The UFC commentator has also said that discussions about a second fight are already taking place within the promotion.A rematch is not the only possible option for Topuria. Anik previously mentioned Paddy Pimblett as another logical opponent for the former champion.However, Anik believes the UFC could prefer putting Topuria directly back into a title fight. The success of the first Gaethje-Topuria event could influence that decision.Anik has also discussed Gaethje’s priorities while assessing his future. He said, “I say that with all due respect. I think Justin is far more concerned with his show money than he is with who he’s actually fighting.”For now, Gaethje remains open to facing Topuria again and Topuria has also made it clear that he wants to return.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.