Ilia Topuria's manager opens up and points out surprising opponent for next UFC fight

Businessman indicates possibility of fight between Ilia Topuria (left) and Justin gaethje. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

the entrepreneur of Ilia Topuria indicated the next opponent of the newest lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg). And the indication is surprising. Since the Georgian-Spanish knocked out Charles of the Bronx in the first round of the main fight of UFC 317, polls point to Arman Tsarukyan ou Paddy Pimblett as challengers. The Russian for being the first in the ranking and 'The Buddy' for the confusion created in the octagon in Las Vegas. But, according to Lukasz Orzel, the closest name is that of Justin gaethje.

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“We are waiting to see who emerges as the natural candidate. We would like to fight again this year. Gaethje is the closest, only time will tell if it is him,” Orzel said in an interview with 'Sports Channel'.

The agent discussed the possibility of his 28-year-old agent becoming a triple champion. The goal is on the radar, but Lucasz assured that Topuria will remain in the lightweight division for now.

“The third belt is a matter of time. For now, we promised the UFC that we will continue in the lightweight division,” said the businessman.

Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett's staredown didn't please Dana White

Dana White confirms UFC in Brazil in 2025 / Reproduction Super Lutas

At a press conference after the event, Dana White criticized the improvised staredown, stating that it was outside of protocol and that he would not have allowed it if he had still been present next to the cage. For him, the scene was a mistake by the organization.

“I don’t know who the hell let him in there. This should never have happened. Let’s start there. I was already back in my room, or this would never have happened,” said the UFC president.

Topuria is going through an impressive phase in the UFC

Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles of the Bronx in the first round. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

At just 28 years old, El Matador is enjoying one of the best winning streaks in the organization's history. He knocked out Alexander Volkanovsky, Max Holloway e Charles of the Bronx subsequently, in addition to capturing the featherweight (up to 65,7 kg.) and lightweight (up to 70,3 kg.) titles in the process. To crown his good moment, the Georgian/Spanish was elevated to the first position in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, beating Islam makhachev.