Topuria's Coach Confirms February Return Date

Ilia Topuria will be ready to fight starting in February 2027, according to his physical trainer Jesus Gallo.

The former featherweight contender suffered two broken orbitals and a shattered nose in his June loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House lawn. Spanish reporter Alvaro Colmenero, who maintains close ties with Topuria's camp, posted on X that Gallo told him the fighter "is gradually returning to training in Miami" and will be fight-ready by February.

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What Topuria's Timeline Means For UFC Lightweight Division

The February target puts Topuria eight months removed from the Gaethje beating. MMA Mania notes that commentator Joe Rogan had warned publicly that the physical and psychological toll of facing Gaethje requires extended recovery time, making a 2026 return unrealistic.

Matchmaking questions linger. The UFC could book an immediate rematch with Gaethje or pivot to a softer rebound fight against Paddy Pimblett. The calculus may shift this weekend when Arman Tsarukyan meets Mauricio Ruffy at UFC 331. A breakout performance there could produce a fresh title challenger, freeing Topuria for the Pimblett bout instead.

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Topuria has posted several social media promos in recent weeks teasing his comeback. His face has healed to the point where the damage is no longer visible. UFC 331 takes place Saturday with Tsarukyan-Ruffy as the co-main event.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Ilia Topuria’s coach shares training details, fight-ready return date