From MMA Knockout On SI · · 1m 50s
Ilia Topuria Nearing UFC Return
Topuria set to fight by February 2027 after injury recovery.
In brief
Topuria set to fight by February 2027 after injury recovery. Ilia Topuria will be ready for his next UFC fight starting February 2027 after recovering from a loss to Justin Gaethje. Originally reported by MMA Knockout On SI.
Ilia Topuria
Former two-division UFC titleholder Ilia Topuria reportedly suffered a devastating loss to Justin Gaethje.
UFC Freedom 250
Topuria headlined UFC Freedom 250 at The White House in June for his first lightweight title defense.
First Career Loss
The fight marked Topuria's first career loss after he knocked out Charles Oliveira the previous year.
Injury Recovery
Topuria sustained significant damage during the fight, prompting his brother Aleksandre to call an end to things between rounds four and five.
UFC CEO Dana White
UFC CEO Dana White expects Topuria to return sooner rather than later after recent updates from his physical trainer.
Physical Trainer Update
Álvaro Colmenero reported that Topuria is gradually returning to training in Miami and will be ready to fight starting February 2027.
February 2027 Date
Topuria's physical trainer Jesús Gallo confirmed he will be ready to fight starting February 2027 after a gradual return to training.
El Matador
Topuria started his UFC career with nine straight wins before knocking out Alexander Volkanovski to win his first belt.
UFC Featherweight
Topuria knocked out long-reigning featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 to win his first UFC belt.
UFC Lightweight
Topuria vacated the featherweight belt to move to lightweight after handing Max Holloway his first knockout loss.
UFC 317
Topuria claimed the vacant lightweight belt by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to join fighters with titles in two weight classes.
Next Fight Speculation
Fans speculate whether Topuria should take more time off or face Justin Gaethje in a rematch or Paddy Pimblett in a grudge match.
What it means
Ilia Topuria will be ready for his next UFC fight starting February 2027 after recovering from a loss to Justin Gaethje.
