Topuria Teases Comeback After Gaethje Loss

Ilia Topuria has signaled his return to competition months after suffering the first defeat of his career.

The former dual-division champion posted photos from the Didgori Battle Memorial in Georgia with a message hinting at his comeback plans. "I returned to where it all began. Not to reminisce, but to remember. The Matador is coming back," he wrote on Instagram, as Sherdog first reported.

Topuria's Recovery From First Career Loss

Topuria has not fought since Justin Gaethje stopped him at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14. Gaethje claimed the lightweight title when Topuria's corner waved off the fight between rounds four and five. The loss dropped Topuria to 17-1 as a professional.

The Georgian fighter announced in September that doctors had cleared him to resume full training and returned to his camp later that month. Reports suggest he could compete again early in 2027, though the UFC has not announced an opponent or date.

Topuria held both the featherweight and lightweight championships before the Gaethje setback. He has not indicated which division he plans to target when he returns to the cage.

Photo: The White House / Wikimedia Commons, Public domain

Original reporting:

• sherdog.com — Ilia Topuria teases UFC comeback following first loss to Justin Gaethje