Ilia Topuria believes his name alone is enough to transform any potential matchup into the largest event currently available within the UFC. Speaking in an exclusive interview with ABC, the Spanish-Georgian fighter asserted that his presence guarantees a high-stakes encounter regardless of who occupies the opposite corner of the octagon.
The fighter, often referred to as “El Matador,” positioned himself as the organization’s premier commercial draw. He suggested that fighting him offers opponents a unique combination of massive financial gain and significant physical risk. “Any fight that is the biggest in the UFC carries my name and surname,” Topuria told ABC.
Economic rewards and physical risks for potential opponents
Topuria’s argument centers on the idea that he is “the fight of the money.” He claimed that opponents would need to compete in ten other fights to earn what they could make in a single bout against him. According to ABC, Topuria believes his involvement changes the lives of his rivals economically, though he warned that it would also “change their lives physically.”
This duality of high earnings and extreme danger defines his current standing in the division. reported that Topuria views matchups against figures such as Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, or Arman Tsarukyan as massive opportunities for those fighters to gain both financial wealth and global recognition.
Recovery timeline and return to training
The fighter’s immediate future depends on his physical rehabilitation following a loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Casa Blanca. Topuria is currently managing several injuries, including a double orbital fracture, a broken nose, and a fractured foot. reported that Topuria expects to begin contact sparring again in January.
While he has expressed interest in returning as early as April, a definitive return date remains subject to his physical sensations and upcoming negotiations with the UFC. Current projections suggest a potential return in the second quarter of 2027, depending on his recovery progress.
Potential matchups with Gaethje, Pimblett, and Tsarukyan
Several names have emerged as potential candidates for Topuria’s next appearance. The fighter noted that if he had the choice, he would select a rematch against Justin Gaethje to resolve the unfinished story from their recent bout. However, he emphasized that he does not want to force any specific negotiation.
Topuria also addressed the possibility of facing Arman Tsarukyan. While Marca noted that Tsarukyan has reportedly been promised a title fight by the UFC, Topuria expressed skepticism regarding those claims. He characterized Tsarukyan as a fighter who relies heavily on wrestling dominance and suggested that if his takedowns are neutralized, he may “panic.”
To counter concerns regarding his grappling, Topuria highlighted his background in Greco-Roman wrestling. “I have been a world champion in two divisions, I grew up and I was raised training wrestling,” he told ABC, noting that his competitive history in wrestling is extensive.
Comparison of potential opponent profiles
| Potential Opponent | Context of Matchup | Topuria’s Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Justin Gaethje | Rematch following Casa Blanca | The preferred choice to finish the story |
| Arman Tsarukyan | Potential title/high-ranking bout | A fighter who may struggle if wrestling is neutralized |
| Paddy Pimblett | High-profile commercial bout | A major opportunity for recognition and earnings |
Frequently asked questions about Ilia Topuria’s return
When is Ilia Topuria expected to fight again?
Topuria is considering a return in April, but Marca reports that a return in the second quarter of 2027 is more likely depending on his recovery from fractures to his orbital, nose, and foot.
What injuries is Topuria currently recovering from?
The fighter is recovering from a double orbital fracture, a broken nose, and a broken foot sustained during his recent bout against Justin Gaethje.
Who are the likely candidates for Topuria’s next fight?
Topuria has identified Justin Gaethje (as a rematch), Paddy Pimblett, and Arman Tsarukyan as primary potential opponents.
Topuria is scheduled to sit down with UFC officials in the coming weeks to begin formal negotiations regarding his next contract and opponent.
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