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Ilia Topuria's Bold Nickname Change Sparks UFC Fan Reactions

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio G Losada | Last updated Mar 25, 2025 1:09 PM ET

Ilia Topuria has been nearly flawless in his UFC career to date. The Georgian-Spaniard holds a perfect 16–0 record, including back-to-back knockout wins over featherweight legends Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway.

But as he transitions to the lightweight division, Topuria has opted for a new identity.

Speaking at a ceremony in Toledo, Spain—where a street was named in his honor—Topuria revealed he’s retiring the “El Matador” nickname in favor of “La Leyenda,” meaning “The Legend.”

Topuria said the change reflects his belief in his future greatness and a mentality of visualizing success before achieving it.

“You need to see to believe. I first believe it, then I see it," Topuria said. "So the nickname that will accompany me in my next fight will be ‘The Legend.’”

The moment in Spain when Ilia Topuria announced his new nickname “La Leyenda”

“You need to see to believe. I first believe it, then I see it. So the nickname that will accompany me in my next fight will be ‘The Legend’”

@diarioas / @Criistinaparra_ pic.twitter.com/cY6OlZWlbq
— ACD MMA (@acdmma_) March 25, 2025

The reaction from fans on X, however, was anything but unanimous.

“He ain’t no legend,” one user posted bluntly.

Another added, “Dead nickname, El Matador >>>>.”

‘La Leyenda’ is a bold choice, but I’m not sure Topuria has earned the ‘legend’ status just yet. He’s definitely shown a lot of promise in the UFC, but legends are built on years of dominance and iconic performances. That said, if he believes in his potential and keeps delivering…
— Postcard Club (@thepostcardcb) March 25, 2025

“‘La Leyenda’ is a bold choice, but I’m not sure Topuria has earned the ‘legend’ status just yet,” wrote @thepostcardcb.

“He has one title defense…………” said @VincenzoPala.

You don't get to choose your own nickname.
— Zachary Haines (@hainesforohio) March 25, 2025

Others questioned the entire premise. “You don’t get to choose your own nickname,” said @hainesforohio.

“Cant give yourself nicknames lol,” added @Mike_Sharpe_.

Some went further. “This dude is so corny,” one wrote.

“SO CRINGE WTFFF,” posted another.

Despite the skepticism, Topuria’s rise hasn’t slowed. That said, whether ‘La Leyenda’ sticks—or becomes a target—may depend on what he does next in the cage, with Topuria's next fight still unknown and yet to be booked by UFC CEO Dana White.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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