Ilia Topuria is back in training following medical clearance for the orbital bone fractures he suffered against Justin Gaethje at the White House south lawn, abc.es reported. The former lightweight champion returned to Instagram with a direct message to online critics discussing his appearance: “The eyes never lie.”
Training in Georgia and Supporting Dvalishvili at UFC 333
Topuria spent time training in his native Georgia while waiting to travel to Qatar to corner his brother, Aleksandre, in the UFC. During that time, the fighter hosted an Instagram live broadcast to watch the UFC 333 co-main event between Merab Dvalishvili and Petr Yan for the bantamweight title.
Faced with a flood of comments about his eyes, Topuria borrowed a famous line from the character Tony Montana in Scarface. He also addressed those suggesting the Gaethje defeat damaged his confidence, telling viewers, “Look into the eyes of the best.”
When Dvalishvili lost to Yan, Topuria offered immediate support to his close friend and compatriot on the broadcast. “Let’s go Merab, we are proud of you anyway,” Topuria said.
Negotiating the Next Opponent for a 2027 Return
Topuria’s primary target for his comeback remains a rematch against Gaethje. However, Gaethje hinted at retirement weeks ago, leaving the division’s future fluid. Should Gaethje walk away, Topuria’s next test could pit him against Arman Tsarukyan.
Paddy Pimblett has also emerged as a possible opponent after the English fighter publicly called for a season of The Ultimate Fighter coaching opposite Topuria. Topuria and his team are targeting a return inside the Octagon during the first half of 2027 while contract talks continue.
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