Ilia Topuria stuns fans by declaring he will “step into the octagon with a new identity”

Ilia Topuria has the entire mixed martial arts world on edge, eagerly watching his next move. While fans wait for confirmation of his next opponent and fight date, the Spanish-Georgian fighter has his sights set on the lightweight title and Islam Makhachev. Adding to the anticipation, Topuria shared a cryptic message on his X account, hinting at a change of identity for his upcoming bout.

Why is Ilia Topuria called “El Matador“?

“El Matador has been my ally in every fight,” Ilia Topuria shared. This nickname was given to the Spanish-Georgian fighter at the Climent Club gym in Alicante, where he earned the title due to the lightning-fast way he dispatched opponents. Of his 16 victories, nine have ended in the first round.

Initially, Topuria wasn’t fond of the nickname, as he is a huge animal lover and the term references bullfighters. However, over time, he grew attached to it, embracing the identity it brought to his fighting career.

Topuria lining up his next opponent

Ilia is hinting at big changes ahead in his MMA journey. Although no opponent or date has been set for his next fight, the Spanish-Georgian fighter has his sights firmly on Islam Makhachev’s lightweight title.

Determined to become a two-division champion, Topuria recently declared, “The next time I step into the octagon, I’ll have a new identity. A new era.” However, Makhachev has suggested that Topuria should first face one of the division’s top names, such as Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, Dustin Poirier or Justin Gaethje. Still, Topuria seems to have his focus locked on the ultimate prize.

In the meantime, Topuria is making waves beyond the cage. Just hours ago, he posted a video on Instagram collaborating with Disney and influencers like Peldanyos, Iván Háchez, Alicia ByHermoss, Lucii, and kickboxing fighter Alejandro Jiménez Hidalgo, known as Halcón. The UFC champion held a masterclass for them to announce the new series Daredevil: Born Again, showcasing his striking skills on the punching bag.

This weekend, Topuria will attend WOW 17 at Madrid Arena—one of Spain’s premier MMA events—which is rapidly gaining traction among fans. Staying busy and visible, Topuria is clearly gearing up for his next big chapter!

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