UFC star Topuria reveals soccer’s best fighter: “without a doubt”

Ilia Topuria is a phenomenon. The man who has turned Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) into Spain’s hottest new sport. A fighter who has knocked out three UFC legends in a row – the biggest MMA promotion in the world, where he holds two titles – and remains undefeated at 17-0. The latest, a spectacular finish against Charles Oliveira in Las Vegas, took just two minutes and 27 seconds.

MMA was once an obscure discipline in Spain, but El Matador has put it in the spotlight, sweeping aside the old prejudices that surrounded contact sports. For that and for his extraordinary success, the Community of Madrid, led by Isabel Díaz Ayuso, named him “Ambassador against drugs and bullying” on Thursday. Before the ceremony, the Spanish-Georgian champion spoke exclusively to AS at the Hotel Fénix Gran Meliá in Madrid.

What does it mean to you to be named Ambassador against drugs and bullying?

First of all, it’s a huge responsibility. I want to thank the Community of Madrid and its president for the opportunity. I think all of us have experienced some kind of bullying at some point – whether psychological, physical or emotional. There are many forms of it. And then there are drugs. We’ve all had someone in our family or circle of friends who has struggled with addiction. I feel a great sense of responsibility, but also gratitude for being able to send a message so our sons and daughters can grow up in a healthier environment and express themselves more freely. We must keep fighting, every day, against bullying and drugs.

For years, contact sports were seen as violent or criminal. How do you go from that to being named an ambassador?

That’s a tough question. The truth is, there’s good and bad in everything – in sport, and in every walk of life. Prejudice is complicated. People sometimes hate without reason or evidence. Thankfully, we’re trying to change that perception. There are still people who choose the wrong path, in any field you can imagine. But over time, I hope that changes. I don’t put my hand in the fire for anyone, because evil exists everywhere. But I do for myself, because I know what lives in my heart.

You’ve given the sport huge visibility and have many young fans. What role do you play in changing that mentality?

It’s a joy to see so many kids getting into the sport – and that was my goal from the beginning. I wanted to be a source of inspiration and motivation for the next generation, and it makes me proud to see that happening more every day. It’s both a joy and a responsibility to play a part in shaping their future.

Dana White said it’s possible you’ll headline UFC 324 early next year. What can you tell us?

Nothing’s official yet. I haven’t had any formal conversations with them. Everything is just rumors so far. When I get the call and we start talking details, I’ll be able to say more – but for now, that’s all it is.

Your possible rivals are Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. Who would you prefer?

If it’s up to me, I’d rather fight Paddy, because there’s a story between us and it would be a much more entertaining fight for the fans. I fight to entertain, to give people a unique experience, and I think with Paddy we’d deliver that. But ultimately, the UFC has the final say.

(Topuria and Pimblett have had a long-running feud that even turned physical in a hotel confrontation. After Topuria’s win over Charles Oliveira in June, the two faced off inside the Octagon.)

You’ve challenged Islam Makhachev several times. If he loses to Jack Della Maddalena in the upcoming welterweight title fight, would you still want him – or the champion?

If he loses, I’m not sure. My goal is to move up a division and fight for a third belt, if I get the chance. With the UFC, you never know – you have your goals, and they have theirs. Let’s see how the stars align. But what matters most to me is fighting in bigger and bigger events and giving the fans a great show.

(Topuria spent months asking for a showdown with Makhachev when he was the lightweight champion. It would have been the fight of the decade, but the Russian decided to move up due to weight problems.)

Alex Pereira might move up to heavyweight to become the first UFC champion in three divisions – something you’ve said you’d like to achieve. What do you think?

Alex has proven he deserves everything he asks for. He’s done incredible work in this sport, won huge fights, and been there for the company when they needed him. Every time he steps in the cage, the fans know it’s going to be special. Whatever he wants, he’s earned it.

Who are you most excited about, Pimblett or Makhachev?

Both, really. They both represent a good challenge for me. Obviously, Islam is something different. We’re talking about very different magnitudes, not only on a media level but also on a sporting level. I think beating Islam means more than beating Paddy. But hey, that’s what I’m saying, whoever it is.

You’ve mentioned making your boxing debut. Who would you like to fight?

I don’t have anyone specific in mind yet. It’s something I definitely want to do, but this path doesn’t come with a manual. You never know what’s going to happen tomorrow. Maybe the boxer I want to face loses his next fight and it’s no longer interesting. My goal has always been to fight the best boxer in the world at that moment. When the time comes, we’ll see who that is. It’s nothing personal – it’s all about sporting achievement. Whoever has the most at stake, that’s who I’ll go after.

(Topuria spoke of facing boxers of the caliber of Canelo Álvarez or Terence Crawford when he debuts in boxing, a discipline in which he stands out for his great striking in fights.

You’ve dreamed of a UFC Spain event at the Bernabéu. How’s that coming along after the new TV deal with Paramount?

It’s much further along than people realize. There are much firmer steps being taken now than last year. There were issues with broadcasting rights before, but things are looking better and better. Like I’ve said before, it will happen eventually. I wish I could give you a date or an opponent, but I can’t – not yet.

(The UFC recently signed a $7.7 billion deal with Paramount for seven years, ending its pay-per-view model in the US. The shift has helped ease scheduling conflicts that made a Spanish event difficult due to time zones.)

You’re a big football fan and this weekend is El Clásico. How will you experience it?

I’m always with Madrid, no matter what. My prediction? Madrid wins – always.

Where does your passion for Real Madrid come from?

Since I was a kid, football has always fascinated me. It’s something you share with friends, it brings people together. I’ve always followed Madrid. Some things you choose, others choose you – and I think Madrid chose me. It’s always given me a unique feeling that no other team has.

I remember watching games and talking about it with Sergio [Ramos]. He was my favorite player as a kid, and I used to wear his jersey. Meeting him later and spending time with him has been incredible. Madrid, for me, represents determination, faith, and never giving up – no matter how hard things get. That’s what I try to embody too.

(Ramos has accompanied Topuria to several of his fights, including in the US and Abu Dhabi. He even joined him in the cage after his victory over Max Holloway last year.)

You’re close to several footballers like Ferran Torres. Any friendly rivalries during big matches?

Not at all. I always wish them the best, because I know the work and sacrifice that goes into what they do. My loyalty to Madrid is one thing – friendship is another.

Which footballer would make the best fighter?

Sergio Ramos, without a doubt.

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