TLDR
- Ilia Topuria announced he’s temporarily stepping away from fighting to address alleged extortion attempts involving false domestic abuse claims
- The UFC lightweight champion claims he’s being extorted for money and has submitted evidence to legal authorities
- UFC has scheduled an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett for next month in Las Vegas
- The promotion has not confirmed whether Topuria will be forced to vacate his championship belt
- Topuria last fought in June 2025, defeating Charles Oliveira via first-round knockout at UFC 317
Sources: AOL | MMA Fighting | ESPN MMA
UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria announced he’s stepping away from fighting temporarily to address what he calls false extortion attempts. The 28-year-old champion shared the news on Instagram, claiming someone is threatening him with “false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met.”
Topuria said the decision was not easy to make. “However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point where you must address them directly,” he wrote in his statement.
The Georgian-Spanish fighter did not reveal who is allegedly attempting to extort him. He stated that he has preserved all relevant evidence, including audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video materials.
Ilia Topuria should vacate the belt.
There’s no chance these legal issues get settled in Q1. Jiri and Hill vacated because of long layoffs. Topuria isn’t injured, but the absence will be similar. pic.twitter.com/BKCW2mp5l6
— Pedro Yan 🇩🇴 (@QuisqueyanoMMA) December 16, 2025
Legal Action Underway
Topuria has submitted his evidence to judicial authorities. He plans to pursue legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.
The champion’s announcement leaves his UFC title in an uncertain position. UFC has not confirmed whether they will force Topuria to vacate the lightweight championship during his absence.
An interim lightweight title fight is already scheduled for next month in Las Vegas. Justin Gaethje will face Paddy Pimblett in that bout, which could determine the next challenger for Topuria’s belt or potentially crown an interim champion.
Gaethje has reportedly pushed for the UFC to make a decision on the title situation. Sources indicate the veteran fighter hoped Topuria’s absence would create an opportunity for him to fight for the undisputed championship.
However, UFC officials have rejected calls to strip Topuria of his title at this time. Reports suggest Topuria plans to return to fighting later in 2026 and does not intend to hold up the lightweight division.
Champion’s Recent Success
Topuria holds an undefeated professional record of 17-0. His last fight took place in June at UFC 317, where he defeated Charles Oliveira with a first-round knockout.
The champion has built an impressive resume during his UFC career. He has victories over some of the sport’s biggest names, including former champions Max Holloway and Alex Volkanovski.
His dominant performances earned him the lightweight title and established him as one of the UFC’s rising stars. The timing of his break comes during what many considered the peak of his career.
The UFC faces a decision about how long to wait for Topuria’s return. The promotion has historically created interim titles when champions are unable to defend their belts for extended periods.
Gaethje, a former interim lightweight champion himself, remains in position to compete for either an interim or undisputed title. His scheduled fight with Pimblett next month will proceed regardless of the decision about Topuria’s championship status.
The lightweight division continues to move forward while Topuria addresses his legal situation. UFC sources indicate the promotion will monitor the situation closely before making any final decisions about the belt.
