UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has confirmed that he will be stepping away from MMA in a statement addressing 'false narratives' surrounding his personal life.
On January 25, Liverpool's Paddy Pimblett will fight Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in Las Vegas for the interim lightweight title.
The fight comes after current lightweight champion Topuria announced that he would not be fighting in the first quarter of 2026 due to personal reasons.
Topuria decided not to elaborate on why exactly he was taking some time away from the UFC octagon, leading to various rumours regarding his relationship with his wife.
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But the UFC star has now released another statement addressing the rumours and claiming that he is 'being extorted' and blackmailed.
Topuria made his UFC debut on October 11, 2020 and has since gone on to become one of the biggest names in the sport as a two-weight world champion with an unbeaten record of 17-0.
But the Georgian and Spanish fighter has now had to put his career on hold, as he to address what he claims are “entirely unfounded” allegations of domestic abuse that are being used to extort him “unless financial demands were met.”
In the statement published across his social media channels, Topuria added that he had initially kept the details of the legal case private to protect his children, but now feels that he needs to speak out.
He added that he plans to address the domestic abuse allegations in court and has gathered evidence to do so and will not be making any other public statements on that matter.
His full statement reads: "Over the past several weeks, I have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title. 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
"My initial decision to remain silent was made solely to protect my children, who are the most important part of my life. However, I have come to understand that silence, under these circumstances, does not protect the truth — it allows false narratives to take hold.
"Many individuals have faced similar situations, and time and again the legal system has ultimately clarified the facts. 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.
"Out of respect for my children and the ongoing legal proceedings, I will not be making any further public statements. I respectfully ask that speculation be avoided and that my family’s privacy be honored during this sensitive time.
"The truth does not require volume — it requires facts. Thank you."
The statement comes just hours after he told Spanish outlet Marca that he plans to leave MMA for good soon to pursue boxing.
He said: "It's no secret that I always wanted to go and test my skills in boxing.
"At this moment, in mixed martial arts, when I'm done, I don't think I'm going to be too long if I'm honest in this sport... I'll make my transition to boxing and I'm going to surprise more than one".
It's unclear when Topuria will be able to return to the UFC octagon to defend his lightweight title, but when he does it will likely be against the winner of Pimblett v Gaethje, who will reign as interim champion in Topuria's absence.
Ben McCrum