Ilia Topuria has revealed he is considering stepping away from MMA shortly after his upcoming title defence against interim champion Justin Gaethje at UFC White House. The reigning lightweight champion spoke openly about the personal sacrifices behind his recent move to Miami, explaining how the demands of elite training and time away from his family in Spain have shaped his decision to retire “not much later” following the event.
Training Relocation Takes Personal Toll
Topuria relocated from his home in Spain to Miami to train with top-tier coaches and sparring partners, a move he described as “permanent” when interviewed by Eurosport España. While the change was designed to sharpen his skills and sustain his ascent in the UFC, it has meant extended periods apart from his two children and wider family network. “Sometimes one has to prioritise as things are in their life. My sporting career is not going to last very long,” he said, acknowledging the emotional cost of life far from home.
Retirement Plans Surface Days Before Fight
With his title defence scheduled for the main event of UFC White House on Sunday, Topuria admitted he already has an eye on life after fighting. He emphasised that the rigours of a championship schedule and constant travel necessitate a definitive end point. “Once I retire, which is not going to be much later, I will return to Spain. That is the place where I want to live, where I want to spend the rest of my life,” he stated, underlining a clear timeline for closing out his time in the octagon.
Impact on UFC Lightweight Division
Topuria’s comments arrive as the UFC lightweight division prepares for a high-stakes showdown. While the champion has remained undefeated since moving up to lightweight and claimed the vacant title by knocking out former champion Charles Oliveira, his potential retirement could reshape the division’s landscape. An abrupt exit from Topuria would open the door for contenders, including interim titleholder Justin Gaethje, to stake their claim on an increasingly crowded roster.
As fight night approaches, Topuria’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the pressures faced by elite fighters balancing career ambitions with personal life. Whether his tenure ends soon after UFC White House or extends further remains to be seen, but for now his focus remains on defending his belt and honouring the sacrifices that brought him to this point.
FAQ
What did Ilia Topuria say about retirement?
Topuria told Eurosport España that his sporting career “is not going to last very long” and that he plans to retire “not much later” after his title defence at UFC White House, at which point he intends to return to live in Spain.
Who is Topuria’s opponent at UFC White House?
Topuria is set to defend his lightweight title against interim champion Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC White House.
Why did Topuria move to Miami?
He relocated permanently to Miami to train with elite coaches and teammates, seeking constant improvement in preparation for his UFC campaigns.
Where does Topuria plan to live after retirement?
He plans to return to Spain following his retirement, saying it is where he wants to spend the rest of his life with his family.