1 week ago
32
PROTECT YOUR DNA WITH QUANTUM TECHNOLOGY
Orgo-Life the new way to the future Advertising by Adpathway
Former UFC two-division champion Ilia Topuria won’t be returning to the octagon this year, as confirmed by a member of his team earlier today.
Recently, Dana White stated that Topuria is ready to fight. White also showed interest in a potential Topuria vs. Gaethje 2 title rematch or a potential grudge match between “El Matador” and Paddy Pimblett.
Meanwhile, the Georgian-Spaniard’s physical trainer revealed last week that Topuria hasn’t even started a training camp, and their main focus isn’t a comeback fight but to resume MMA training.
WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 14: Ilia Topuria of Spain looks on during introductions before the UFC lightweight championship fight against Justin Gaethje during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)Ilia Topuria has resumed training but won’t fight this year
Now, there is some good news. “El Matador” has resumed training in Miami. However, as per his physical trainer, Jesus Gallo, Topuria will be ready to return starting February 2027. Spanish journalist Álvaro Colmenero has reported:
“I’ve been talking with Jesús Gallo, Ilia Topuria’s physical trainer He has informed me that Ilia is gradually returning to training in Miami and that “he’ll be ready to fight starting from February” of 2027.”
Check out the update below:
Ilia Topuria lost his title to Justin Gaethje on June 14 at the White House. The 29-year-old lost the 155-pound title unification bout in Round 4 via TKO (corner stoppage). Topuria sustained a broken nose, two fractured orbital bones, and a shattered foot against Gaethje.
So far, recovery has been going pretty well for the 29-year-old, but it looks like Topuria will take enough time to become rock-solid mentally and physically before attempting to return to his winning ways.
Justin Gaethje also plans to return in 2027 to defend his 155-pound strap. Although Gaethje does not want to rematch Topuria right away and belives “El Matador” has work to do before earning another title shot, the UFC may have other plans.
Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.
English (US) · 
French (CA) ·