Topuria steps away from UFC: “I’m going through a difficult moment”

Ilia Topuria won’t be returning to the UFC Octagon until at least April. “I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year,” the reigning lightweight champion revealed unexpectedly on Thursday, in a post on social media.

“A difficult moment”

“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.”

Topuria added: “I don’t want to hold up the division. The UFC will make the matchups needed, and as soon as the matters are resolved I’ll let the UFC know I’m ready to begin my return.”

What will happen now?

Logic suggested that the Spanish-Georgian fighter (17-0), who hasn’t competed since defeating Charles Oliveira back in June, would be one of the headliners for the UFC’s early-year cards.

However, Topuria’s surprise announcement shakes up the promotion, which may now look to book an interim title fight in the division - potentially between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. Both were rumored as possible challengers for “El Matador”.

Topuria, who continues to train, hasn’t set a firm return date. The UFC’s biggest event of the year is slated for June 14 at the White House to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. All signs point to Topuria wanting to be part of that historic card… but he could head into the event after a full year out of action.

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