Dana White confirms Ilia Topuria's return and points to two possible rivals in the UFC.

Topuria at the UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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Ilia Topuria is getting closer to returning to the octagon. After a period away from competition, the former UFC champion received an important update on his future in the organization, with Dana White indicating that the Georgian is ready to get back into action.

In an interview with 'Jim Rome's' YouTube channel, available last Wednesday (9), the UFC president spoke about Topuria's next steps and revealed that there are two possibilities being considered for the fighter's return. Both options, according to the executive, have the potential to generate great repercussion among the organization's fans.

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“Topuria is ready to fight, and we are ready for him. A rematch with Gaethje is incredible. A fight with Paddy Pimblett is fantastic, those two hate each other… Both options seem good to me,” said Dana White.

One of the alternatives mentioned would put Ilia Topuria against Justin Gaethje again . The American was responsible for 'El Matador's' first professional defeat by knocking him out at UFC Casa Branca in June, a result that also took the lightweight (up to 70,3 kg) belt from the former champion.

The other possibility involves Paddy Pimblett , a former rival of Topuria. The two have already engaged in numerous public provocations and built a rivalry that sparks great interest among fans. Now, with the Georgian's return imminent, the organization could transform the animosity between the two into one of the division's biggest clashes.

Topuria's career path in MMA.

Ilia Topuria promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

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At 29 years old, Ilia Topuria is one of the leading names in the UFC and one of the most successful fighters of his generation. A professional since 2015, the Spaniard has a record of 17 wins and one loss, with seven wins by knockout and eight by submission. A former featherweight (up to 65,8 kg) and lightweight champion, he has achieved notable victories over Alexander Volkanovski , Max Holloway , Charles Oliveira, and Josh Emmett.

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