UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has revealed why he’s stepping away from the sport, claiming he’s facing a disturbing extortion plot.
Topuria raised eyebrows last month when he announced a break from MMA to deal with personal matters. Fans had been left guessing about his cryptic comments – until now.
In a detailed Instagram statement, the 28-year-old said he is confronting what he described as “false allegations of domestic abuse.”
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“Over the past several weeks, I have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title,” Topuria wrote.
“This was not a decision I took lightly. However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point when you must address them directly.
“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.
“These allegations are entirely 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 material.
“This evidence has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities in order to pursue legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.”
Topuria explained that he chose to stay quiet at first to safeguard his family’s privacy, but said he could no longer stand by while “false narratives” continued to spread.
“Many individuals have faced similar situations, and time and again, the legal system has ultimately clarified the facts,” he added.
“Today, I am stepping forward not only for my family and myself, but also to demonstrate that no one should be forced to yield to intimidation, manipulation, or fear.
“Those who know me can attest that I have never engaged 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 legal system to determine the facts based on evidence.”
Topuria’s revelation didn’t sit well with former foe Bryce Mitchell, who wasted little time firing shots at the champion.
“That b***h puts his hands on a woman, I’d rather not see my Dad than have my Dad there beating on my mom. That’ll get you killed around these parts, son,” Mitchell said in an Instagram post.
“I just had to let you know, you’re a straight up b***h for that. Your brother’s a b***h too, I’ll fight him. I’ll beat his a**e You got lucky I was sick or I would’ve beat your a**e.
“You don’t deserve to see your kids, son, because you put your hands on their mother. You’re a coward. That s**t is sickening.”
Earlier in the year, Topuria claimed the vacant lightweight title earlier this year, etching his name into history as just the 10th fighter to hold UFC belts in multiple divisions.
A first title defense was expected early next year, but now his return is on hold — and it may not last long.
“It’s no secret that I’ve always wanted to try my hand at boxing,” Topuria told Marca. “But I think something I’ve always applied to my life is that if you try to catch two rabbits, you end up catching neither.
“So, I want to finish my story in mixed martial arts, in MMA, first, and once I’m done, then make my complete transition to boxing. I can’t be preparing for an MMA fight, then leave, prepare for a boxing match, come back… I don’t think that would be very professional, would it?
“Because boxing requires a completely different approach, very, very, very different training that I have to adapt to. Obviously, the timing is different, and well, it’s not even an octagon; it’s a ring, and I would have to adapt to that, which takes time, like everything in life.
“So, right now, in mixed martial arts, when I finish—which I don’t think will be too long, to be honest—I’ll make my transition to boxing, and I’m going to surprise more than a few people.”
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Topuria’s absence from MMA prompted UFC boss Dana White to make the interim lightweight belt available.
As a result, Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje are set to clash for the interim UFC lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24.