Spain
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Ilia "El Matador" Topuria is the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, an undefeated two-division world champion and the pound-for-pound best fighter on the planet. Born in Germany to Georgian parents and raised in Spain, Topuria has defeated three former world champions by knockout in his last three fights, capturing the featherweight and lightweight titles while never tasting defeat as a professional.
Career highlights
Headlined UFC Freedom 250 at the White House in Washington D.C., defending the UFC Lightweight Championship against interim champion Justin Gaethje.
Defeated Charles Oliveira via first round KO in two minutes and 27 seconds to win the UFC Lightweight Championship, becoming a two-division UFC champion while remaining undefeated.
Defeated Max Holloway via third round TKO to retain the UFC Featherweight Championship, becoming the first fighter in history to stop Holloway.
Defeated Alexander Volkanovski via second round KO to win the UFC Featherweight Championship, dethroning the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the world.
Signed with the UFC with a perfect undefeated record, rising through the featherweight division without a single professional loss.
Frequently asked questions
Ilia Topuria is managed by First Round Management, a full service sports management company representing elite UFC and combat sports athletes worldwide. For booking, appearance and commercial enquiries, contact First Round Management at info@firstroundmanagement.com.
All booking, appearance and commercial enquiries for Ilia Topuria are handled exclusively through First Round Management. You can reach the team at info@firstroundmanagement.com or via the contact page at 1str.com/contact-us.
Ilia Topuria currently competes at Lightweight (155lbs) in the UFC. He previously held the UFC Featherweight Championship at 145lbs, making him a two-division world champion.
Yes. Ilia Topuria became the UFC Lightweight Champion at UFC 317 in June 2025 by knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round, becoming a two-division UFC world champion while remaining undefeated.
Ilia Topuria was born in Germany to Georgian parents and grew up in Alicante, Spain, where he developed as a professional fighter. He competes representing Spain.
As of 2026, Ilia Topuria holds a perfect professional MMA record of 17-0, with all victories coming by knockout or submission. He has never been defeated as a professional fighter.
Ilia Topuria's nickname is "El Matador," a nod to his Spanish roots and his reputation as a devastating finisher inside the Octagon.
No. Ilia Topuria has never been finished or defeated in his professional MMA career. He enters every fight with a perfect 17-0 record, with all wins coming by way of finish.
Ilia Topuria has defeated Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira, all former UFC world champions, by knockout in his last three fights.
