When is Ilia Topuria expected to return to the UFC?

Ilia Topuria plans to return to fighting between April and June of this year.

Who does Ilia Topuria want to fight next?

Topuria wants to face the winner of the interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.

What UFC title did Ilia Topuria previously hold?

Ilia Topuria is a former UFC featherweight champion and currently holds the lightweight title.

Home / Sports / Topuria Eyes Return: Pimblett/Gaethje Winner Next?

Topuria Eyes Return: Pimblett/Gaethje Winner Next?

17 Jan

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Summary

Ilia Topuria plans to return to fighting between April and June.
He aims to face the winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett.
Topuria vacated the featherweight title for lightweight.

Topuria Eyes Return: Pimblett/Gaethje Winner Next?

UFC fighter Ilia Topuria has signaled his return to the octagon, targeting a comeback between April and June. The former featherweight champion, who also holds the lightweight title, aims to face the winner of the interim lightweight title bout between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.

Topuria has been on a leave of absence to address personal matters following a divorce and accusations of domestic abuse. His departure from fighting led to the Jan. 24 interim title fight. He previously vacated his featherweight championship to secure the lightweight title by defeating Charles Oliveira.

The 28-year-old has also publicly dismissed potential future opponents, stating he could easily knock out Arman Tsarukyan and expressing confidence he could defeat Islam Makhachev. Topuria's successful ascent and dual-championship status have elevated him to global stardom, particularly in his native Spain.