Anthony Smith urges Ilia Topuria to return to UFC octagon ASAP
No surgery needed for Topuria’s orbital fracture; Smith warns delay risks compounding the first loss of his career.
Ilia Topuria will not require surgery for the orbital fracture he suffered in his UFC lightweight title loss to Justin Gaethje, removing a major obstacle to a swift return. The former champion, who tasted defeat for the first time in his career on May 10, 2026, at UFC 301 in Las Vegas, now faces a psychological reckoning rather than a surgical one. His orbital fracture diagnosis initially carried a cloud of uncertainty, with doctors warning that operating would extend recovery beyond a year.
The latest update shortens the timeline, opening a path back to the Octagon by late 2026. Anthony Smith, a veteran of elite-level title chases and a UFC commentator, argued on the Joe Rogan Experience that Topuria must return as soon as medically cleared. Smith, who has twice challenged for UFC gold and knows the mental toll of defeat, warned that dwelling on the loss will compound the setback.
