Ilia Topuria (17-1) has been released from the hospital and is on his way home to recover after his first career loss.

The former UFC lightweight champion suffered orbital fractures in both eyes in his technical knockout loss to Justin Gaethje in the UFC White House main event last Sunday in Washington, D.C. The right eye suffered the bulk of the damage, according to a report from Marca. "El Matador" will not return to action until some point in 2027.

Dana White Predicted the Injury

UFC CEO Dana White predicted the injury during the post-fight conference.

"We literally had him get out of the Octagon before the hand was even raised and sent him to the hospital," White said. "He's busted up. I'm not a doctor, but his eye looked like he probably has a broken orbital."

White's immediate concern was for Topuria's health.

"My plans for him are to go home and rest and recover, take his time. It was a rough night for him. I just want to make sure he's healthy and good and not even thinking about him fighting again. I just want him to go home and relax and rest and heal."

What's Next?

Losing to Gaethje marked the first loss of Topuria's pro career, which he spent primarily at 145 pounds. No word yet on whether the former two-division champion plans to move back down to featherweight or hang around at lightweight to get his revenge on Gaethje, assuming "The Highlight" is still around by the time Topuria is cleared to return.

The Cost of War

Topuria entered the White House main event as an undefeated champion. He left with two broken orbital bones and a year-plus recovery ahead of him. Gaethje walked out with the undisputed lightweight title.