Ilia Topuria is eying a return to the UFC’s octagon this summer, but says he isn’t sure if the White House card will be where he lands.
Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC), the UFC lightweight champion, was last in action in June at UFC 317. At that event, he knocked out Charles Oliveira to win the vacant title, but hasn’t competed since. Personal issues arose, which delayed his plans and even led to the creation of an interim title, which Justin Gaethje captured by defeating Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324.
Advertisement
With Topuria’s personal matters settled, he’s ready to return, and as of know, just knows around what time of the year that will happen.
“In summer, hopefully,” Topuria told Adin Ross during a live stream on Kick. “… I don’t know (if I’m fighting at the White House). It’s like, you don’t say to the UFC how to make fights and where they have to put you, and they don’t tell you how to fight.”
Topuria has been rumored to fight in a title unification bout against Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC) in the headliner of the White House event. The UFC has not officially announced any fights for the card, although UFC CEO Dana White has stated matchmaking for the event is already completed.
“As of right now, I have no f*cking idea what’s going on,” Topuria said. “… I know that I’m going to fight in the summer, but I don’t have any specific date or place – but I know I’m going to fight. I’m ready.”
Advertisement
Ross asked Topuria if he would be fighting Gaethje next.
“I think so,” Topuria said, followed by a sly laugh.
Topuria didn’t rule out the possibility of fighting the promotion’s No. 2-ranked lightweight, Arman Tsarukyan, next as well, ultimately stating he will fight whoever the UFC calls and tells him to fight against.
“Justin, Arman – I don’t care,” Topuria said. “Both of them. Same night.”
Beyond what may be next this summer for Topuria and his lightweight title, the champ is looking down the road toward a potential third title at welterweight by taking on Islam Makhachev. While he would like the fight to take place at 170 pounds in order to become the promotion’s first three-division champion, he would also like to make history by creating a new title.
Advertisement
“The perfect scenario for me would be fighting him in the welterweight division, because that way, I’m going to be able to collect my third belt,” Topuria said. “But also, would be a greater scenario for me to fight between 155 and 170, and create a new belt. Why not call it pound-for-pound, because he’s the No. 1, I’m the No. 2 right now. For me, and myself, I’m the No. 1. You put two of the best guys in the world, you put the pound-for-pound belt in the middle. Whoever wins is the best.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Ilia Topuria wants summer return, unsure of UFC White House plan
