Article by David Istrate – Published Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 9:55 p.m. / Updated Tuesday, December 16, 2025, 9:58 p.m.
Ilia Topuria (28), one of the best mixed martial arts fighters in the world, revealed that he made the decision not to fight in the first months of 2026, because he was subjected to blackmail, being threatened that if he did not pay some large sums of money, compromising information about him would be published.
Having reached the age of 28, Ilia Topuria has a record of 17 wins and 0 losses in the UFC, being one of the best athletes in the competition. On June 28, he defeated Charles Oliveira to become the lightweight champion.
Ilia Topuria says he is being blackmailed: “I tried to keep silent to protect my children”
But a few weeks ago, Topuria shocked by saying that he will not fight in the first months of 2026 and relinquished the championship belt. As a result, the UFC announced that Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje will face off in January for the interim lightweight belt.
This week, Topuria posted a statement on social media in which he explained that he had been blackmailed and subjected to “intolerable pressures”. being threatened that if he is not willing to pay then some compromising information will be spread. The Spanish-Georgian athlete did not give more details about who is blackmailing him.
You know that in recent weeks I have had to temporarily step down from defending the title, a decision which, as you can imagine, was not an easy one at all. But when life puts you in front of situations that threaten your peace, your family and your name, there comes a time when you have to step forward.
In recent months I have endured intolerable situations and pressures, being threatened with the spread of unfounded accusations of abuse, which would disappear only in exchange for money. But the truth has only one way: the facts.
All of this is perfectly documented – audio recordings, messages, testimonies and videos – and is made available to the justice system for legal action not only for attempted extortion, but also for tampering with evidence, embezzlement of money and personal belongings, as well as for all threats received.
I tried to keep silent to protect my children, who are the pillars of my life, but I understood that being silent no longer means protecting, but allowing the lie to grow.
Many people have gone through similar situations, and justice, sooner or later, put things in their place. Today I must step forward and be an example that no one should give in to pressure, manipulation or fear. Those who know me know that I have never used violence against anyone and that my values have always been respect, discipline and honesty.
I am taking this step for my family, for myself and for all those who need to see the truth defended with facts. I have full faith in the judiciary and I put everything I've experienced in its hands.
As you will understand, out of respect for my children and the legal process, I will not make any further statements. I only ask that there is no speculation and that my family's privacy is respected at such a delicate time, which you have always done and for which I am deeply grateful.
My truth need not cry; it just needs to be heard
– Ilia Topuria
According to as.com, “several fighters have shown their support for Ilia following his announcement, including Max Holloway and even Paddy Pimblett, his declared rival.”
