Photos of Ilia Topuria's incredible street art in Barcelona spark mixed fan reactions on MMA internet: "Fake Madrid fan", "Shame he's Georgian"

Fans react to Ilia Topuria
Fans react to Ilia Topuria's mural in the streets of Barcelona [Image courtesy: Getty Images]

Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria defended his title in stunning fashion at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi, knocking out former champion Max Holloway in the third round. Topuria, who claimed the belt in February by defeating Alexander Volkanovski, added another impressive win to his flawless record, moving to 16-0.

Following his victory, a piece of street art honoring Topuria appeared in Barcelona, sparking a wide range of responses from fans on social media.

The mural, shared online by ESPN MMA, quickly became a talking point as fans debated its significance and Topuria’s connection to Spain.

Although born in Germany to Georgian parents and later moving to Spain, Topuria has openly supported Real Madrid, prompting some fans to question his representation in Barcelona.

One fan commented:

"Mural in Barcelona, dissing CR7, this guy is a fake Madrid Fan."
Fans react to the mural of Topuria in the streets of Barcelona. [screenshot courtesy: @espnmma via Instagram]
Fans react to the mural of Topuria in the streets of Barcelona. [screenshot courtesy: @espnmma via Instagram]

Another added:

“Shame he’s Georgian”

While another joked:

“Ahh, why in Barcelona? He doesn’t even like them … he’s a Real Madrid fan.”

Another added humor, saying:

“I prefer the ‘tourist go home’ street art.”

Check out some of the fan reactions below:

Fans react to Ilia Topuria's mural in Barcelona. [Screenshot courtesy: @espnmma via Instagram]
Fans react to Ilia Topuria's mural in Barcelona. [Screenshot courtesy: @espnmma via Instagram]

Ilia Topuria Responds to Cristiano Ronaldo’s prediction for UFC 308

Ilia Topuria has responded to football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s less-than-favorable prediction about his performance at UFC 308. Ahead of the event, Ronaldo had publicly backed Max Holloway over Topuria.

Ronaldo said:

“[Topuria] didn’t fight with the top guys, If he beats Max, I will respect [him]. ... Never KO. This is why [Holloway] will be tough for Topuria.”

After his victory, Topuria addressed Ronaldo on social media, responding to the soccer legend’s comments with a respectful but pointed message:

“I didn’t expect someone like you to be unable to distinguish between confidence and arrogance. But, at the end of the day, we all reflect our own reality onto others. I wish you the best for what remains of your career, and God bless your family.”

Check out Ilia Topuria's post below:

Quick Links

Edited by Anurag Mitra
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications