Topuria confirms career break to avoid disrupting UFC plans: 'I'm going through a difficult time'

Ilia Topuria He is the current UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iliatopuria

Ilia Topuria He decided to take a temporary break from his career, but assures that he does not intend to disrupt the rhythm of the lightweight division. After winning Charles of the Bronx After winning the 70,3kg category belt, the Spaniard fueled great expectations among fans about his next move. However, everything indicates that 'El Matador's' followers will have to wait a little longer to see him back in the octagon.

In a post on X, the champion explained that he will not return to fighting in the first quarter of 2026, justifying that he is going through a delicate personal moment and wishes to focus on his children while resolving family matters as quickly as possible.

See too

Watch out, Chimaev! Caio Borralho's nemesis reveals conversation with the UFC and heats up the title fight.

Businessman takes up Khabib's fight and slams Conor McGregor: 'He took his soul and masculinity'

Former UFC champion proposes an unexpected duel to Alex Poatan against an unlikely rival.

"I will not be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I am going through a difficult time in my personal life. I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible," wrote Topuria.

Topuria also emphasized that he doesn't want to hinder the division's progress. According to him, the UFC will continue to put together the necessary fights, and as soon as his situation is resolved, he will inform the organization that he will be ready to begin his return to the octagon.

“I don’t want to stall the division. The UFC will make the necessary fights, and as soon as everything is resolved I will inform the UFC that I am ready to begin my return,” El Matador concluded.

I won't be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I'm going through a difficult moment in my personal life. I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible.
I don't want to hold up the division. The UFC will make the matchups needed, and as soon…

— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) November 27, 2025

Is Ilia Topuria experiencing a crisis outside the octagon?

Ilia Topuria He is the UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Instagram / UFC

Although there has been no official announcement yet, strong rumors indicate that Ilia Topuria He and his wife, Giorgina Uzcategui, may have separated. Speculation gained traction after clear signs of estrangement between the two, especially on social media.

One of the most talked-about signs is the removal of photos of the couple on Instagram. Topuria kept only one image alongside his ex-wife and son, while Giorgina deleted all posts in which she appeared with the UFC champion. These moves reinforced rumors that the relationship had come to an end.

UFC lightweight division without Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria is the lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

With the removal of Ilia Topuria In the first quarter of 2026, the UFC lightweight division will have time to reorganize. Behind the scenes, three names are emerging as the main contenders to challenge for the belt temporarily vacated by the champion: Paddy Pimblett, Justin gaethje e Arman Tsarukyaneach with solid arguments to support their position.

Paddy Pimblett, Topuria's declared rival, took the lead by stepping into the octagon right after UFC 317 to challenge the new champion. Undefeated in the organization and possessing enormous popular appeal, the Briton stands out as one of the strongest options for a title fight.

Another name being considered is Justin gaethjeThe American has already fought for the belt twice, being defeated by Charles of the Bronx e Khabib NurmagomedovHowever, he still has the influence of his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, in his favor, as well as the good victory over Raphael Fiziev in his most recent presentation.

Lastly, Arman Tsarukyan emerges as a legitimate alternative. Currently ranked number 1, the Armenian lost his chance at the title after being removed from the fight against Islam makhachev No. UFC 311 He suffered a back injury the day before the fight. Recovered, he returned to the octagon and dominated. Dan Hooker with authority in UFC Qatar, reinforcing their arguments to receive the next opportunity.