After weeks of speculation over his absence, UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has revealed the shocking reason he won’t be stepping into the octagon in the near future.
The undefeated fighter issued a statement on Monday detailing an alleged extortion plot against him, which he says includes false claims of domestic abuse.
Topuria, who most recently fought and defended his title against Charles Oliveira in June, posted his claim on Instagram.
“Over the past several weeks, I have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title. This was not a decision I took lightly,” he wrote in the post on Instagram in both Spanish and English. “However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point when you must address them directly.”
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“In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to disseminate false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met. These allegations are entirely unfounded. The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a matter of evidence.
“All relevant evidence has been carefully preserved and documented, including audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video material. This evidence has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities in order to pursue legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.”
Interim title fight at UFC 324
Topuria added that he will not make any more public statements until the matter is resolved and asked that “speculation be avoided” for the time being after a firestorm of rumours on social media.
According to reports, the allegations of domestic abuse against the 28-year-old are from his ex-wife.
Many eyebrows were raised last month when it was announced Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett would be fighting at UFC 324 with an interim lightweight title on the line despite the fact Topuria is not dealing with any known injury setbacks.
Topuria, who has a record of 17-0, won the lightweight title in February 2024 with a knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski. The Georgian-Spanish sensation has since defended the title twice, including June’s win over Oliveira.