Ilia Topuria is set to return to the Octagon next month at UFC Freedom 250. It will mark nearly a year since his last appearance.
That outing saw him defeat Charles Oliveira to claim the lightweight title. The win cemented his status as one of the fastest rising fighters in the sport.
With nine UFC fights, nine wins and six finishes by knockout or technical knockout, Topuria has already secured belts across two divisions. That trajectory has pushed him toward the greatest of all time debate.
Ilia Topuria stays silent on legends suggesting he picks himself in the GOAT debate
Topuria addressed the conversation while speaking on ESPN’s social media channels, taking part in a classic challenge. The premise required him to stay silent until a better fighter was named.
As the interviewer listed legends such as Jon Jones, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Georges St. Pierre and Alex Pereira, the Spaniard remained completely quiet.
His silence suggested he did not consider any of those fighters superior. Once the list ended, he finally broke that silence with a statement that reflected his self-belief.
“Bro, I have the ego right here,” he said, pointing toward the ceiling.
The response underlined the confidence driving his rapid rise. It also reinforced how he views his current position within the sport’s hierarchy.
It remains early to firmly place Topuria among the greatest names in MMA history. However, his undefeated 9-0 UFC record and consistent performances continue to strengthen his case.
If he successfully defends his lightweight title, the conversation could shift quickly, as Topuria has already expressed interest in pursuing a third belt at welterweight.
If he manages to do that, he will certainly secure his place in the most privileged pages of MMA history books.
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