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UFC star Ilia Topuria opened up about the reasons why he decided to step away from the cage for at least the first half of 2026 as he deals with a serious personal matter.
Topuria defeated Charles Oliveira for the UFC lightweight championship back in June and improved to 17-0 in his career and 9-0 since joining the UFC. Dana White said Topuria will remain the champion as he navigates the dark situation he faced.
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Ilia Topuria (red gloves) prior to the fight against Charles Oliveira (blue gloves) during UFC 317 at T-Mobile Arena on June 28, 2025. (Stephen R. Sylvanie/Imagn Images)
Topuria said in a statement Monday that he faced threats over fabricated allegations of domestic violence.
“In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to spread false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met,” Topuria said. “These allegations are completely 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 footage. This evidence has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities for the purpose of pursuing legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.
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Giorgina Uzcategui Badell looks on as her husband Ilia Topuria of Spain is interviewed during the UFC 317 event at T-Mobile Arena on June 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Topuria said he initially decided to remain silent to protect his family’s privacy, but added that he could not allow more “false narratives to take hold.”
“Many individuals have faced similar situations and time and time again the justice system has ultimately settled the facts,” he added. “Today I am coming forward, not only for my family and myself, but also to demonstrate that no one should be forced to give in to intimidation, manipulation or fear. Those who know me can confirm that I have never been involved in violence of any kind and that my life and career have always been guided by discipline, respect and integrity.
“I have full confidence in the judicial process and will allow the judicial system to determine the facts based on evidence.”
Topuria said he would not comment further on the case until the trial is over.
Pakinomist Digital reached out to Giorgina Uzcategui Badell for comment. The couple have two children together.
Ilia Topuria celebrates his championship victory against Alexander Volkanovski during UFC 298 at the Honda Center on February 17, 2024. (Gary A. Vasquez/USA TODAY Sports)
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Topuria was No. 2 in the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings, but it’s unclear when he will return to action.
