TLDR
- Ilia Topuria announced a hiatus from UFC to address domestic violence allegations from his ex-wife, which he denies and calls extortion
- Bryce Mitchell posted a video condemning Topuria, calling him a coward and referencing his own fatherless childhood
- Topuria claims he submitted evidence including recordings and witness statements to authorities
- The UFC scheduled an interim lightweight title fight between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje for UFC 324
- Mitchell and Topuria previously fought at UFC 282, where Topuria won and later mocked Mitchell’s farming lifestyle
Sources: Times of India | BJPenn.com | LowKick MMA
UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria confirmed he is stepping away from competition to address serious personal allegations. The undefeated fighter announced his hiatus through a detailed social media statement, explaining that domestic violence claims from his ex-wife forced him to pause his career.
Topuria said the allegations are false and part of an extortion attempt. “In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to disseminate false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met,” he wrote.
The champion stated he has submitted evidence to judicial authorities. This includes audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video material.
“These allegations are entirely unfounded,” Topuria said. “The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a matter of evidence.”
He said his initial silence was meant to protect his children. “However, I have come to understand that silence, under these circumstances, does not protect the truth — it allows false narratives to take hold,” Topuria explained.
Bryce Mitchell goes off over Ilia Topuria domestic abuse allegationshttps://t.co/GwzxelzgwU
— MMAWeekly (@MMAWeeklycom) December 16, 2025
Mitchell Posts Harsh Video Response
Bryce Mitchell, who lost to Topuria at UFC 282 in December 2022, responded with a blistering video message. Mitchell wore a white tank top, commonly called a “wife-beater,” in what he described as deliberate mockery.
“Remember when I fought Ilia, he won, and then afterwards, he got a pair of overalls and was making fun of me, because I run a farm and I run around in overalls, and he thought that was hilarious?” Mitchell said. “Well, I got something for you.”
Mitchell called the video his “Wife Beater Special” before launching into harsh criticism. “That b*tch puts his hands on a woman,” he said.
The Arkansas native connected the allegations to his personal history. “I grew up without a dad, never seen my dad, never will see my dad,” Mitchell explained. “And you know what? I’d rather not see my dad than have my dad there beating on my mom.”
Mitchell issued a direct warning to Topuria. “Let me tell you something, that’ll get you killed around these parts, son,” he said.
He also mixed his criticism with religious appeals. “Ilia, you need to repent, return to Jesus Christ… and probably stop drinking, too,” Mitchell added.
UFC Moves Forward with Interim Title
With Topuria sidelined indefinitely, the UFC booked an interim lightweight title fight. Paddy Pimblett will face Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in Las Vegas on January 24, 2026.
The promotion has not announced when Topuria might return. Pimblett previously suggested that if the champion cannot compete by summer 2026, the organization might strip him of the title.
Justin Gaethje backflips after his face off vs Paddy 😂 pic.twitter.com/xStc7xAUTG
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) December 6, 2025
Topuria closed his statement by requesting privacy. “Out of respect for my children and the ongoing legal proceedings, I will not be making any further public statements,” he wrote.
The champion maintains his innocence and said his life has been guided by “discipline, respect, and integrity.” He expressed confidence that the legal system will resolve the situation based on evidence.
The winner of the Pimblett-Gaethje fight is expected to face Topuria for the undisputed title when he returns. No timeline has been set for the champion’s comeback to the octagon.
