UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has announced a shocking hiatus from mixed martial arts, citing a serious alleged extortion plot against him. The undefeated fighter revealed he is stepping away to protect his family and reputation from threats to leak fabricated allegations.
Champion Forced to Make "Difficult Decision"
In a statement released on social media, Ilia Topuria confirmed he has "made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title." The 28-year-old explained that the move comes as he faces what he describes as an extortion attempt.
"This was not a decision I took lightly," Topuria stated. "However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point when you must address them directly."
The fighter claims he received threats demanding money, with the alternative being the release of false domestic violence accusations. He vehemently denies all allegations, stating they are "entirely unfounded."
Evidence Submitted to Judicial Authorities
Topuria asserts he has gathered substantial evidence to support his case and has submitted it to the relevant legal bodies. He claims to have preserved audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video material.
"The truth is not a matter of opinion - it is a matter of evidence," he declared. "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."
The champion expressed confidence in the judicial process, stating he will allow the legal system to determine the facts based on the presented evidence.
Hiatus Follows Speculation and Title Win
This bombshell revelation follows weeks of speculation regarding Topuria's personal life, including rumours of marriage troubles with his wife, Giorgina. The couple share two children: a son, Hugo, born in 2019, and a daughter, Giorginita, born earlier this year.
It is important to note that Topuria did not personally accuse his wife of extortion in his statement, nor did he name her specifically. He explained his previous silence was to protect his children's privacy but felt compelled to speak out as silence "allows false narratives to take hold."
Topuria last fought in June 2024, knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to win the lightweight championship and improve his perfect professional record to 17-0. This victory made him a two-division champion, having previously held the featherweight belt.
His absence was felt when he was notably not scheduled for the main event at UFC 324 for an interim lightweight title. Last month, he first indicated his hiatus, confirming he "won't be fighting in the first quarter of next year" due to a difficult personal moment, wanting to focus on his children.
The fighter has stated he does not wish to hold up the lightweight division and has asked the UFC to make necessary matchups, promising to signal his readiness to return once his personal matters are resolved.
