Why Topuria could spoil UFC's White House party

Why Topuria could spoil UFC's White House partyImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ilia Topuria has finished 15 of his 17 fightsByPaul BattisonBBC Sport JournalistPublished5 minutes agoCommentsWhile US President Donald Trump and the UFC prepare for a grand celebration of America on Sunday, one man is perfectly placed to spoil the party.In an unprecedented event at the White House to celebrate 250 years of American independence, it is Ilia Topuria - a Spaniard who was born in Germany to Georgian parents - who could have the last word.In the main event in Washington DC, Topuria defends his lightweight belt against American interim champion Justin Gaethje.Undefeated in the first 17 fights of his career and regarded as one of the most devastating finishers on the UFC roster, Topuria is heavily tipped to beat home favourite Gaethje and pour cold water on American celebrations.A former featherweight champion, the 29-year-old could become the first fighter in UFC history to defend titles in two divisions while remaining undefeated."It's very emotional and exciting to be a part of all this. There's something I've always said, 'if you know where you're from and you know where you're going, you're going to be able to accomplish great things'," said Topuria.Pereira completes heavyweight transformation in history bidPublished12 hours agoTopuria shoves Gaethje in front of Lincoln MemorialPublished1 day agoWhite House prepares for UFC Freedom 250 - in picturesPublished3 days agoNamed UFC Freedom 250, Trump has predicted the show on the White House South Lawn to be "one of the highest-rated events ever in sports", while the UFC has spent around $60m (£44.3m) on the project.The White House has hosted recreational sports and events before but the spectacle will mark the first professional live sporting event to take place on the grounds.For an event so unique, the UFC was expected to announce a special card, and a...