Ilia Topuria reveals which sport she would pursue if she weren't a UFC champion.

Ilia Topuria is a former featherweight champion. Photo: Reproduction Instagram/UFC Europe

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Ilia Topuria He reflected on what path he would have followed if he hadn't become one of the leading names in world MMA. The current UFC lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg), the Georgian-Spanish fighter stated that he would have tried a career in professional football because of his long-standing passion for the sport.

The statement was made during an interview with the YouTube channel 'Sports Worldvip'. Throughout the conversation, Topuria also commented on his support for Real Madrid and explained that his identification with the Spanish club began in childhood. The lightweight champion highlighted the values ​​represented by the Spanish team and admitted that he has always had a strong connection with football.

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"Since I was a child, I don't know... I've always liked the values ​​that the team represented. I've always had many idols within the team. So, yes, I've always followed them."

"If you asked me what sport I would practice if I weren't an MMA fighter, I would say soccer, because I simply love playing soccer. I love watching it too. It's an incredible sport," said Topuria.

(I.e.Ilia Topuria says he would play football (soccer) professionally if he wouldn't be an MMA fighter:

"I love playing soccer, I love watching it. It's a great sport."

(via YT / SW) pic.twitter.com/IaZUXMRkHj

— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 14, 2026

Ilia Topuria's next fight

Ilia Topuria is now preparing for another important commitment in UFC White House, scheduled for June 14th in Washington DC (USA). The undisputed champion faces Justin gaethje in the main event, in a duel valid for the unification of the lightweight belt.

In addition to Topuria's title defense, the card will also feature another major highlight involving Brazil. Alex Poatán face Cyryl Gane in contention for the interim heavyweight title.

Check out the fight program below UFC White House (subject to change).

Full UFC White House fight card

Light weight (up to 70,3 kg): Ilia Topuria x Justin gaethje – fight for the unification of the belt

Heavy weight (up to 120,2 kg): Alex Poatán x Cyryl Gane – fight for the interim belt

Bantam weight (up to 61,2 kg): Sean O'Malley x Aiemann Zahabi

Light weight (up to 70,3 kg): Mauricio Ruffy x Michael chandler

Average weight (up to 83,9 kg): BoNickal x Kyle Daukaus

Featherweight (up to 65,7 kg): Diego lopes x Steve Garcia