In a surprising move, undefeated lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has announced he will take a break from the UFC, confirming he will not compete during the first quarter of 2026.
The Georgian-Spanish fighter cited personal difficulties as the reason for his hiatus, emphasizing his desire to focus on his family and children before returning to the octagon.
A Difficult Time Away From the Cage
Topuria’s decision comes amid widespread speculation about his marriage to wife Giorgina, with reports suggesting the couple may be heading toward divorce.
While he didn’t go into specific details, he acknowledged a challenging period in his personal life, explaining that he wants to address these matters fully before resuming his fighting career.
“I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year,” Topuria wrote on social media.
“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 as the matters are resolved, I’ll let the UFC know I’m ready to begin my return.”
Champion Status and Recent Victories
Topuria, 28, last competed in June at UFC 317, where he defeated Charles Oliveira via knockout to capture the lightweight title.
That victory extended his unbeaten record and added a second division belt to his resume, following his earlier featherweight championship.
His absence is particularly impactful as the UFC gears up for UFC 324 in January, the first numbered event of the Paramount+ era, where Topuria had been rumored to defend his lightweight title.
Lightweight Contenders Eye the Vacant Opportunity
With Topuria stepping back, several fighters are positioning themselves for a shot at the championship.
Paddy Pimblett, Justin Gaethje, and Arman Tsarukyan are all in contention.
Tsarukyan bolstered his claim recently with a submission win over Dan Hooker in UFC Qatar, while Pimblett continues to campaign for the high-profile grudge match fans have long anticipated.
Previously, Topuria had expressed interest in facing Pimblett, telling journalist Alvaro Colmenero, “I have Paddy on my mind. I want to fight Paddy.”
That fight, however, now faces an indefinite delay as the UFC reevaluates the lightweight division in his absence.
Support From Fellow Fighters
Topuria’s announcement drew immediate reactions from the MMA community.
Former opponent Max Holloway shared support on social media, writing, “Sorry to hear champ.
If it’s what I’m hearing, I know the struggle first hand trying to fight while protecting your kids. Hope all goes well.”
What Happens Next in the Division
As of now, the UFC has not outlined how it will proceed with the lightweight championship during Topuria’s hiatus.
The division’s landscape is shifting rapidly, with top contenders poised to seize an opportunity should the belt be vacated or defended in his absence.
Fans will be watching closely as the promotion determines the next moves for the 155-pound division.
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