Exploring the Possibility of Ilia Topuria Retiring in 2027

Ilia Topuria recently hinted that he might put down his UFC gloves next year.  Topuria’s last bout took place at the UFC White House card, where he suffered a devastating loss to Justin Gaethje. After a much-needed rest, he’s back in training, although he’s keeping it light given that he’s still recovering from severe injuries he suffered during his lightweight title loss to Gaethje.

In an exclusive interview with ABC Diario, Topuria said he’s targeting an early 2027 UFC return and wants to settle his beef with his long-standing rival Paddy Pimblett.

Also, Dana White, speaking on The Jim Rome Show, confirmed that UFC is working on bringing Topuria back in early 2027. Dana said, "He'll come back in early [2027], and we're working on that, too."

During his chat with ABC Diario, Topuria also teased retirement, saying, “I’ve achieved everything, and after this fight, what else?” Maybe I’ll even retire.” 

The first undefeated two-division champion in modern UFC history has indeed achieved everything in his career, so does this mean it’s the end of the road for him after his next fight in 2027?

Dana White Won't Let Ilia Topuria Retire Easily

Jon Jones officially announced his retirement from mixed martial arts on June 22, 2025. He finished his career with a 28-1 professional MMA record with one no-contest, including a dominant 16–0 mark in UFC title fights.

Also, Conor McGregor recently revealed that he plans to walk away from mixed martial arts after completing the final fight on his current UFC contract. McGregor made his long-awaited return at UFC 329 on July 11, 2026, to face Max Holloway. 

He lost in just 69 seconds of the first round. He is targeting summer 2027 as his return window and wants a third and final match against Max Holloway to wrap up his UFC career. With legendary names like Jon Jones leaving the UFC and Conor McGregor choosing to part ways with the company next year, Dana White won’t be pleased with losing another one of his top stars. 

Plus, UFC inked a landmark 7-year, $7.7 billion U.S. media rights agreement with Paramount (averaging $1.1 billion annually) in August 2025. Therefore, Dana White really can’t afford to let Ilia go. So he’ll try his best to keep El Matador from retiring.

Will Ilia Topuria Really Retire? 

In addition, Ilia Topuria hinting at retirement could just be a negotiation tactic. Fighters have historically used this strategy to gain leverage in contract standoffs.

Hopefully, Ilia is talking about his retirement was simply a tease, and he's not serious about it; otherwise, a lot of fans would be heartbroken. 

There are still months left for Topuria's comeback and potential retirement, and the world is already buzzing with speculation as to what might happen. Will Ilia retire, or will he continue his UFC journey? Only time will tell.