According to this ex-fighter, Ilia Topuria is not done collecting gold.
Ilia Topuria became the tenth two-division champion in UFC history this past June, when he followed up a brief featherweight reign with an immediate lightweight title win.
After moving up, Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to begin his rule over a new weight class. and when it comes to weight changes, the Spanish star does not appear to be finished yet.
‘El Matador’ has long outlined his desire to make history by becoming the first three-weight titleholder in the promotion, and one mixed martial arts legend believes he has all the tools to do so.
What more does Ilia Topuria have to do to enter the UFC GOAT debate? đ
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Paddy Pimblett Suggests Ilia Topuria May Vacate the UFC Lightweight Title
In Topuria’s absence,Paddy Pimblett will fight Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324.
While Dana White announced that the winner will welcome ‘El Matador’ back later in 2026, Pimblett may not even need to beat Topuria to become undisputed champion if his recent remarks prove correct.
Discussing the champ’s personal issues, ‘The Baddy’ suggested Topuria could end up vacating the title, meaning the winner of the January 24 main event will be elevated to the throne.
“He’s got a lot going on in his personal life. I wish him nothing but the best,” Pimblett told ESPN Deportes’ Carlos Contreras Legaspi.
How long do you think Ilia Topuria will be sidelined for?
The UFC lightweight champion is taking a break from MMA to focus on a problem outside the Octagon.
[Image of ilia Topuria celebrating defeating Charles Oliveira]
Ilia Topuria Eyes Undisputed Title, Questions Alexander Volkanovski‘s Return Timeline
UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is eager to face Alexander Volkanovski in the octagon, but is also prepared to be crowned undisputed champion by default if Volkanovski doesn’t return soon.
in a recent interview, Topuria downplayed any personal issues between himself and Volkanovski, stating, “That has got nothing to do with me and him fighting. That’s his family, and I hope everything goes well. I hope that goes perfectly for him. All I care about is getting him in that octagon and fighting him.”
Though, topuria also expressed concern over Volkanovski’s extended absence due to injury, suggesting he may have to vacate his title if he doesn’t return to competition by June or July. “But you never know, if he doesn’t come back by June, July, then he might have to vacate his belt,” Topuria said. “I’ll become undisputed champion without even fighting.”
volkanovski has been sidelined sence losing to Islam Makhachev at UFC 294 in October 2023, a fight he took on short notice. He underwent arm surgery following the bout and his return date remains uncertain. https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2024/03/15/24144448/ufc-featherweight-champion-ilia-topuria-questions-alexander-volkanovskis-return-timeline
Topuria defeated Josh Emmett in February to claim the featherweight title and has repeatedly called for a fight with Volkanovski to unify the division. The situation leaves the future of the featherweight title in limbo,dependent on Volkanovski’s recovery and return to fighting form.
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