Former UFC Featherweight Champion, and soon-to-be lightweight contender, Ilia Topuria unveils the new nickname that he will debut in his next fight.
Unbeaten Stint at 145 Leads To Premature Exit, Different Division for Ilia Topuria
After a perfect run on the European regional circuit, Ilia Topuria (16-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) entered the UFC in 2020, taking out current No. 12-ranked featherweight competitor Youssef Zalal. Over the next four years, the Georgia native embarked on a stellar climb up the division, collecting victories over strong opposition like Ryan Hall, Bryce Mitchell and Josh Emmett. Competing in his first promotional championship tilt at UFC 298, “El Matador” dominantly floored then champion Alexander Volkanovski with a vicious second round knockout to earn the 145-lb strap.
Ripping the belt away from the previously five-time defending title holder, Ilia Topuria locked horns with another former featherweight king in the form of Max Holloway, who was fresh off a viral finish over Justin Gaethje.
Although many scoffed at the Spaniard’s claims of being the first man to stop “Blessed” by strikes, Ilia Topuria shocked the combat sports world by punching out Holloway in the third round.
While he looked to be at the height of his reign as champion, the incumbent would shockingly vacate his throne to permanently move to lightweight, citing how the weight cut to 145-lb had become too much for him.
Ilia Topuria Reveals New Nickname
Walking into a brand new weight category sometime in 2025, Ilia Topuria will be stepping into the cage with more than just a heavier frame, he will have a completely new nickname. Originally known as “El Matador,” the now pound-for-pound No. 3 athlete on the roster will henceforth be known as “La Leyenda” (The Legend in Spanish). Speaking at a press conference, Topuria gave his reasoning for the change.
“El Matador” is something that has been with me throughout my career, throughout my rise, and it’s something that has led me to the new nickname, because a lot of people, it’s like I always say: You need to believe. You need to see to believe,” Ilia Topuria said. “I believe it first, and then I see it. So the nickname that will accompany me in my next fights is going to be “La Leyenda.’”
Who Will Ilia Topuria Fight in Lightweight Debut?
Considered to be one of the most popular faces in the company today, Ilia Topuria’s imminent freshman outing as a lightweight will undoubtedly be a must-watch affair. However, who he will be squaring off with in that outing remains up in the air at this time. Although he has already voiced his preferred next opponent, it ultimately remains to be seen just who the former champion will tango with in his return to the Octagon.
According to UFC CEO Dana White, fight fans can expect to hear an announcement regarding Topuria within the next few weeks.
