Calling him cocky would be pretty applicable; calling him champion more so. Spaniard Ilia Topuria lived up to the infamous “15-0” Instagram-bio acclamation and notched his title gold. He went up against the featherweight king Alexander Volkanovski in the latter’s 6th title defense and came out victorious. The good news is, ‘El Matador’ hasn’t turned down a chance of a rematch altogether.
The bad news is it isn’t happening on Alexander Volkanovski’s home turf. UFC returns to Perth for a 3rd time on Aug. 17 at RAC Arena. Currently, middleweight champ Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya are the top projections to headline the card. Adding fuel to the fire is that Topuria snubbed ‘The Great’ a chance at the card.
I am the world champion now, why would I go to defend the belt at my rival's house? Ilia Topuria via the RadiogacetaRNE Sports Radio Gazette
This was during the segment, “The story has already been written, now I just have to forge the legend.” Spanish MMA account ‘Pelutnaton’ (@pelunaton) also reports that Topuria will travel to Miami later this month to finalize a next date and opponent. Following his sensational knockout win, the Alicante-Georgian native warned off Volk from an immediate rematch.
On the other hand, the Aussie is on a sabbatical and plans a rematch for later this year. At 26-4 MMA, 13-3 UFC, Volkanovski has circled prime opponents and holds quite a fanbase in Australia. Hence, a grudge title rematch would have boosted his stature. With UFC 305 ruled out, Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu would be a huge sellout for the champion.
What do Ilia Topuria and his corner think of his future matches?
Ilia Topruia’s rise to stardom reminded people of 2014-2016 Conor McGregor. The Spaniard stayed true to his word and knocked out Alexander Volkanovski in their featherweight title match. Standing at a clean 15-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC stat, Topuria is now ready for his next challenge.
Consequently, coach Jorge Climent, has plans for him on the home soil. Following his momentous win, the fighter has seen a rapid spike in his popularity. Recent footage by El Partidazo de COPE also showed the fighter at the receiving end of a regal standing ovation from his fans.
After winning at UFC 298, Topuria met with the president of Spain and attended the honorary kick-off at the Real Madrid vs. Sevilla game. He also aims to headline Real Madrid’s stadium, Santiago Bernabeu, putting it at the forefront of representation.
Having confidence in what we are capable of, doesn’t mean I had the vision of what we’re seeing today...In Spain, this was always a niche sport and the majority of the fan base was created by us, so it’s just incredible. Winning over the Real Madrid fan base, being with the top politicians, being on television...I’m sure he sells out El Bernabéu and not just of Spanish fans... Spain is where all Europeans go on vacation... Jorge Climent to MMA Junkie in Spanish
One thing is for sure: Ilia Topuria will have a noteworthy title run ahead of him. While he has disregarded a featherweight rematch at Perth next, the fighter has multiple opportunities. It is only a matter of time before the UFC announces the upcoming fight of the featherweight champion.
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