In a stunning revelation that has rocked the mixed martial arts world, undefeated UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has broken his silence on his mysterious absence from the octagon. The fighter alleges he is the target of a serious extortion plot, forcing him to step away from defending his title.
Champion Breaks Silence on Instagram
After weeks of intense speculation from fans and media, Topuria took to Instagram on Monday to issue a detailed statement in both Spanish and English. He explained that his difficult decision to temporarily step back from competition was due to circumstances threatening his personal integrity, family, and reputation.
The 28-year-old champion claimed he has faced "severe and unacceptable pressure," including threats to publicize completely false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met. Topuria was adamant that these claims are baseless, stating, "The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a matter of evidence."
Evidence Submitted to Authorities
In his social media post, Topuria outlined that he has gathered and preserved substantial evidence to support his case. This evidence reportedly includes:
- Audio recordings
- Written communications
- Witness statements
- Video material
He confirmed that this documentation has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities. The legal actions he is pursuing include charges for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.
Topuria added that he will make no further public comments until the matter is legally resolved and asked for an end to speculation, which has been rampant on social media platforms.
Interim Title Fight Announced Amid Absence
The champion's absence had already prompted significant action from the UFC. Last month, the promotion announced that an interim lightweight title fight will headline UFC 324. Top contenders Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett are set to battle for the interim belt, a move that raised eyebrows given Topuria has no publicly known injury issues.
According to reports, the source of the domestic abuse allegations is Topuria's ex-wife. The situation has created an unexpected hurdle for the rising star, who has been on a spectacular run in the UFC.
Ilia Topuria, who holds a perfect professional record of 17-0, captured the UFC lightweight championship in February 2024 with a knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski. The Georgian-Spanish fighter successfully defended his title twice since then, most recently defeating former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June 2025.
The MMA community now awaits the outcome of this legal situation, which has sidelined one of the sport's most dominant and exciting champions.
