Ilia Topuria remains away from UFC competition as he works through a complex family situation involving divorce and custody issues. While the lightweight champion has chosen to step back from the sport to focus on his private life, he says misleading stories circulating online have created additional pressure.
According to Topuria, recent headlines and social media posts have repeated claims that have not been confirmed by any legal authority. He maintains that speculation has overtaken verified facts, especially regarding court-related matters involving his family.
Clarifying Court Involvement
The controversy escalated after a report suggested that Topuria had been summoned to court over domestic violence allegations. Topuria later stated that this characterization was inaccurate and that the headline was subsequently changed.
He explained that his required court appearance relates only to an administrative family issue connected to travel permissions for his daughter, not to any criminal allegation.
Topuria’s Full Statement
“I have always felt deeply grateful for the respectful treatment I have received from the media, who have been and continue to be an important part of my journey throughout all these years.
Unfortunately, and very much to my regret, I am currently in the news for matters that have nothing to do with sports.
I understand that being a public figure means being exposed to fake news and misleading, sensationalist headlines designed solely to generate clicks, without regard for the truth or the consequences.
Yesterday, a media outlet published a story with a false headline claiming that I had been summoned to testify in a domestic violence case. That headline later had to be changed because it was not true. I have never been summoned to testify for that reason, although I will of course do so willingly if ever required. The fact is that, due to how the judicial system works, I am required to go to that court, but the summons is solely related to a family and administrative matter concerning my daughter’s travel outside of Spain, whom I have been unable to see for four months despite numerous attempts.
I accept the cost of public exposure, but that does not justify the spread of unverified false information, the distortion of facts, or the disclosure of matters involving a minor who deserves protection. The situation began with a divorce petition filed by me, following weeks of negotiations after our separation. After I refused to accept certain completely unreasonable financial demands, a complaint alleging abuse was filed weeks later something I had previously been threatened with and which is now being reviewed by the courts.
I continue to place my trust in God, in justice, and in people. I know the truth will prevail, and that I will soon be able to recover one of the two most important things in my life, alongside my son Hugo my daughter, Giorgina.
All I ask of the media is the same respect and rigor that most of them have always shown me and that they stick to the facts, because the truth follows only one path.
God bless you.”
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 3, 2026
With Topuria unavailable, the UFC has moved forward with an interim lightweight title fight. Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett are set to compete for interim gold at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas.
Topuria has not announced when he expects to return to action, indicating that resolving family matters remains his priority.
Before stepping away, Topuria had built one of the most impressive runs in recent UFC history. He captured the featherweight title with a knockout win over Alexander Volkanovski, followed by a successful defense against Max Holloway. After vacating the 145-pound belt, he moved up to lightweight and claimed the vacant title by stopping Charles Oliveira in the opening round.
Despite the current pause, his undefeated record keeps him among the sport’s elite.
Topuria has emphasized that he understands the scrutiny that comes with being a public figure, but insists that reporting should remain grounded in confirmed information. As legal processes continue, he has asked for restraint and responsibility when discussing matters involving his family, particularly where minors are concerned.
