Is Ilia Topuria Spanish?

Ilia Topuria is a mixed martial artist who's competed in both the lightweight and featherweight divisions during his time in the UFC.

Topuria was born in Halle, Germany, but moved to Georgia at the age of seven. Both his parents are Georgian and the fighter's nationality is Georgian-Spanish. 'El Matador' is known for representing both flags during his fights.

Although he began the early part of his MMA training in Georgia, he moved to Alicante, Spain at the age of 15 and began his career as an MMA fighter. He then fought in local Spanish organizations.

Topuria then went on to fight for CAGE, Cage Warriors, and Brave CF before making it to the UFC.

Topuria made his UFC debut back in 2020 on Fight Island in Abu Dhabi. He currently boasts an MMA record of 12 wins and no losses.

'El Matador' is searching for his next opponent and was rumored to be fighting Bryce Mitchell on November 5 as a replacement for Movsar Evloev.

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Ilia Topuria responds to Bryce Mitchell's claims

Ilia Topuria has responded after Bryce Mitchell claimed that he's avoiding a fight with him.

'El Matador' supposedly agreed to fight Mitchell on November 5. However, the American claims Topuria changed his mind after not being able to make weight at such short notice.

He said in a video on social media:

"Ilia Topuria hasn't accepted the fight as of now. So they are moving on, looking for other opponents...I don't really know, maybe in a couple of days he'll change his mind. But I hear that Ilia is now saying he can't make the weight. Which is crazy 'cause he was supposed to fight the week before."

In response to the video, Topuria wrote on Twitter:

"You piece of s**t! Coward and liar ! I will tell the whole truth"

With that in mind, it seems that the pair won't be colliding early next month. However, judging by Mitchell's remarks, the promotion is still attempting to keep him on the Las Vegas-held card.