Ilia Topuria Leaves UFC for Personal Reasons, Outlines Return Schedule
UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria announced on Thursday his plans to take a hiatus from fighting during the first quarter of 2026. He cited personal reasons for his decision, indicating he is currently facing challenges in his private life.
Ilia Topuria’s Announcement
In a post shared on X, Topuria stated, “I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I’m going through a difficult moment in my personal life. I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible.” He emphasized that he does not wish to delay the division’s progression.
Career Highlights
- Topuria boasts an impressive professional MMA record of 17 wins and no losses.
- He captured the UFC lightweight title by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June.
- Previously, he held the UFC featherweight title, winning it from Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in 2023.
- Topuria successfully defended his featherweight title against Max Holloway at UFC 308 in October 2024.
Current Rankings and Future Contenders
Topuria, a fighter of Georgian and Spanish descent born in Germany, is currently ranked No. 2 in the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings, only behind Islam Makhachev. With his absence from the upcoming matches, the lightweight division’s dynamics may shift.
Arman Tsarukyan has emerged as a potential frontrunner for the lightweight title after his recent victory over Dan Hooker. Other candidates like Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett are also in consideration for the title contention.
Interim Title Speculations
Given Topuria’s hiatus, there is speculation that Gaethje and Pimblett might compete for the interim UFC lightweight title. The winner will likely face Topuria later for the unification bout once he resumes his fighting career.
