TLDR
- Ilia Topuria will not defend his lightweight title in January or February 2026
- Spanish journalist Alvaro Colmenero confirms Topuria likely to fight in spring 2026
- UFC and Topuria have not discussed his next fight yet
- Arman Tsarukyan called out Topuria after submitting Dan Hooker at UFC Qatar
- Kayla Harrison vs Amanda Nunes now frontrunner to headline UFC 324 on January 24
Ilia Topuria’s first lightweight title defense has been pushed back to spring 2026. This news comes after weeks of speculation about the champion headlining UFC 324 in January.
Spanish journalist Alvaro Colmenero provided the update about Topuria’s timeline. Colmenero has been a reliable source for news about the Spanish-Georgian fighter. He confirmed that Topuria will not fight in January 2026.
Colmenero said February is also unlikely for the champion’s return. The journalist mentioned private situations have changed the plans. He stated that fans will be surprised by what happens in the lightweight division.
Dana White previously hinted that Topuria could headline UFC 324 on January 24. The event marks the promotion’s first major show on Paramount+. Reports now indicate Kayla Harrison defending her title against Amanda Nunes is the current frontrunner for that card.
According to MMA Pros Pick, Topuria and the UFC have not had any discussions about his next fight. Colmenero responded to this report by saying the lack of a contract shows January is not happening. The January date is now just weeks away.
Topuria won the lightweight title at UFC 317 in June in Las Vegas. He defeated Charles Oliveira in a performance that excited fans. Many expected that victory would set up a quick return for the new champion.
Title Contender Reacts
Arman Tsarukyan has been vocal about wanting the next title shot. The Armenian fighter submitted Dan Hooker in the main event at UFC Qatar. The victory cemented his position as the top contender.
Tsarukyan has been calling out Topuria online since the champion won the belt. After his win in Qatar, he increased his criticism of the champion. He posted on X accusing Topuria of falling off.
Tsarukyan wrote that Topuria went from “El Matador to El Pato” and then to “El Patético and El Panocha.” The post shows his frustration with waiting for a title shot. The delay in Topuria’s return pushes back Tsarukyan’s championship opportunity.
Fighter’s Preferences
Topuria has discussed his preferred opponents in recent interviews. He expressed interest in facing Islam Makhachev in a super fight. Fans have wanted to see this matchup for years.
If the Makhachev fight doesn’t happen, Topuria said he would prefer fighting Paddy Pimblett. Pimblett had a confrontation with Topuria that reminded fans of their rivalry. Both fights would draw major attention from fans.
Without a contract in place, neither matchup appears close to reality. The lack of discussions between Topuria and the UFC means fans will wait longer for clarity. The lightweight title picture remains uncertain heading into early 2026.
