Former UFC champion predicts spectacular comeback for Ilia Topuria and explains why.

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

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Merab Dvalishvili is scheduled to fight at UFC 333, where he will face Petr Yan on October 24th. Before the fight, the Georgian took the opportunity to talk about Ilia Topuria and expressed confidence in the future of 'El Matador', highlighting that the former champion's current form could be important for his evolution before a return to the octagon.

In an interview with Ariel Helwani's YouTube channel, this Monday (24), Merab highlighted that the phase Topuria is going through could contribute to the Spaniard's evolution. For the Georgian, the period away from the octagon, enjoying life and recharging his energy, could make the former champion return even stronger and more prepared to recover the belt.

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“As you can see, he’s having a lot of fun. He’s enjoying life. When he returns, he’ll reclaim the belt and defeat everyone. Nobody can stop him,” declared Merab Dvalishvili.

Despite his high level of performance throughout his career, the two-time champion is experiencing a new phase after his loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Casa Branca in June and is looking to define his next steps. For the former bantamweight champion (up to 61,2 kg), however, the Spaniard possesses all the necessary qualities to return to the top and overcome the division's top names.

While Ilia Topuria assesses the next steps in his career, Merab focuses his attention on the duel against Petr Yan . The confrontation will be the third chapter of the rivalry between the two and could have a great impact on the bantamweight title fight, further increasing the anticipation for the Georgian's return to the octagon.

Topuria's career path in MMA.

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

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 (up to 70,3 kg) champion, he has achieved notable victories over Alexander Volkanovski , Max Holloway , Charles Oliveira, and Josh Emmett.

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