After dominating the Featherweight Division at 145 pounds, Ilia Topuria has made a bold leap into the Lightweight Division, ready to take on even tougher challenges.
Ilia Topuria is an explosive and well-rounded athlete known for his elite boxing, knockout power, and intense skill set inside the Octagon.
Ilia Topuria's Bio
Birthday | 1/21/1997 |
Age | 29 |
Country | Georgia |
Nickname | El Matador |
Height | 5'7" |
Weight | 155 lbs |
Reach | 69" |
Stance | Orthodox |
Weight Division | Lightweight |
Professional Record | 17-1-0 |
Age
Ilia Topuria was born on 1/21/1997 and is 29 years old. He turned pro in 2015, making his UFC debut in Abu Dhabi in October of 2020. Topuria defeated Youssef Zalal to claim his first of many wins in the Featherweight Division.
Height, Weight & Reach
Topuria is 5'7" tall and weighs 155 lbs. He recently moved up in weight class divisions. Previously, competing in the Featherweight Division weighing in at 145 pounds.
His reach is 69" which is considered a shorter reach compared to other UFC athletes. With a 17-1-0 record inside the octagon, it does not seem like his reach is a disadvantage against opponents.
Record & Recent Fights
Topuria most recently lost his UFC Lightweight Championship title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, 2026.
Toporia is no longer undefeated after this bout, making his record 17-1-0.
He made his debut in the Lightweight Division on June 28th, 2025, where he knocked out Charles Oliveira.
Before that Topuria competed in the Featherweight Division. Where he vacated his Championship Title to compete in the Lightweight Division.
He won the UFC Featherweight Championship by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February, 2024.
He has a total of 7 wins by knockout, 8 wins by submission, and 11 first round finishes. Topuria is currently ranked #2 Pound-for-Pound.
Nickname
Topuria's nickname is "El Matador" (The Bullfighter). It came about because of his coaches and peers at the Climent Club in Alicante, Spain.
It is homage to his adopted home and the tradition of bullfighting in Spain. It is reflected in his fighting style because of his "finisher" mentality.
In early 2025, Topuria announced he would adopt the nickname "La Leyenda" (The Legend).
"La Leyenda" represents the legacy he has created by defeating icons like Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. It showcases the confidence he has in himself every time he steps in the octagon.
Net Worth
As of early 2026, Topuria has an estimated net worth between $2 and $5 million.
Topuria's biggest purse and total payout came from his UFC 308 Featherweight Title against Max Holloway in October 2024.
He earned an estimated $3.9 million.
Topuria recently made a move to fight in the Lightweight Division which typically has higher purses. This could make his net worth even higher if he keeps competing at the championship level.
When is Ilia Topuria's Next Fight?
There is no set date on when Ilia Topuria will return to the Octagon. Ilia will be taking an extended break as he recovers from an injury.
