Justin Gaethje delivered a memorable finish for the American crowd gathered at the White House by upsetting Ilia Topuria to claim the undisputed UFC lightweight title.

The 37-year-old American defied expectations and halted Topuria at the close of the fourth round, earning his first undisputed championship.

Gaethje landed repeated heavy blows during a fierce battle, prompting the Georgian-Spaniard to remain on his stool ahead of the fifth round and suffer the initial loss of his 18-fight career.

The unique card, promoted as UFC Freedom 250, unfolded on President Donald Trump 80th birthday during festivities honoring 250 years of American independence.

Following the win, which commentator Joe Rogan described as one of the sport biggest surprises, Gaethje performed his trademark backflip from the cage top and greeted Trump with a handshake.

In an inspiring post-fight discussion, Gaethje drew parallels between his underdog role and the early American fight for independence.

I come from America, where 250 years ago we faced far steeper odds than a 6-1 underdog, and now we are thriving, Gaethje remarked. He also expressed gratitude to current, former and future military members.

Gaethje Claims Long-Awaited Title

The South Lawn hosted the first professional sporting event of its kind, although recreational activities have occurred there previously. Thunderstorms caused a half-hour postponement, yet the show proceeded without further issues.

President Trump and UFC chief Dana White appeared together from the Truman Balcony above the octagon, followed by the national anthem and a flyover by US Air Force jets. Roughly 4,300 spectators, largely US military personnel, filled the area and chanted USA for the American competitors.

Trump observed the action near the octagon with White while the Marine Band performed during fighter entrances that began inside the White House. Gaethje began his walk from the Oval Office, pausing to absorb the moment before passing portraits of former presidents.

Topuria, moving up from featherweight, could not assert his usual power as Gaethje exchanged strikes in round one. Despite body shots that dropped Gaethje in round two, the American seized momentum to the approval of those ringside and an additional 85,000 viewers at the nearby Ellipse park.

A powerful right hand sent Topuria to the canvas, after which Gaethje continued with uppercuts and knees that left his opponent bloodied and swollen. A doctor examined Topuria before round four, but his corner withdrew him prior to the final round as the 29-year-old could not absorb further punishment.

The victory gave Gaethje, long regarded as one of the UFC most thrilling fighters, his first undisputed belt on the third attempt, complete with a special red, white and blue strap. He stated that the moment suited him perfectly and that he ranks as the most exciting competitor ever to enter the cage.

Gane Halts Pereira Three-Belt Ambition

After securing middleweight and light-heavyweight belts, Pereira aimed to become the first UFC three-division champion yet was outmatched by Gane. The 36-year-old Frenchman used his smooth movement to control the interim heavyweight title bout.

Gane hurt the Brazilian with jabs and body kicks in round one before landing a decisive timed jab that dropped the 38-year-old. Although Pereira rose, the referee stopped the contest as Gane pressed his dazed foe.

The result made Gane a two-time interim heavyweight champion in his first outing since facing British titleholder Tom Aspinall in October. That earlier bout ended as a no contest due to repeated eye pokes, and Gane requested a rematch in October. He thanked Dana, the UFC and Pereira for the opportunity.