Dana White Says Ilia Topuria Is Ready to Fight and Big Matches Are Waiting

 

 

 

 

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UFC CEO Dana White has revealed that former champion Ilia Topuria is officially ready to make his highly anticipated return to the Octagon. While Topuria is not yet placed on any official fight schedule, White confirmed that the promotion is actively planning his next move.

Speaking on The Jim Rome Show, White made it clear that the UFC is spoiled for choice regarding Topuria’s next opponent. The two main choices on the table are an immediate lightweight title rematch against Justin Gaethje or a highly volatile grudge match against long-time rival Paddy Pimblett.

"Both sound good to me," White stated. "They’re both great. We don’t lose with either one of those fights."

Topuria is looking to bounce back after losing his lightweight crown to Gaethje via a fourth-round corner stoppage back in June at UFC White House. Despite the severe facial injuries Topuria took in that bout, including fractures to his nose and orbital bones, his recovery has progressed much faster than expected. White emphasized that a rematch would be massive, while a clash against Pimblett would be just as amazing due to the genuine, deep-seated hatred the two fighters share.