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Former UFC two-division champion Ilia Topuria is back on social media after more than a 12-week hiatus, posting an emotional yet motivational message that Spanish football star Ferran Torres has reacted to.
Topuria lost his lightweight title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250. “The Highlight” bloodied up “El Matador,” broke his nose and two orbital bones, and left the 29-year-old’s eyes badly swollen. After Round 4, Topuria’s corner decided to stop the bout to save him from further punishment. With that, Gaethje secured a TKO victory and the lightweight strap.
WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 14: Justin Gaethje strikes Ilia Topuria of Spain in the UFC lightweight championship fight during the UFC Freedom 250 event on the South Lawn at the White House on June 14, 2026, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)One day after the title loss and the end of his undefeated record at the White House, Topuria congratulated Gaethje but also told the 37-year-old that they will run it back. “El Matador” also vowed to ‘return wiser, stronger, and more dangerous.’
Over the past few weeks, Topuria has been enjoying his time away from the UFC as he heals and has also been spotted partying with footballer Ferran Torres. But now, it’s time to lock in.
Earlier today, Ilia Topuria returned to social media with an emotional letter for his son, Hugo. He said:
“Hugo, I’ve been thinking about you these past two days. About what you felt when you saw me go down. I know it hurt you. And as your dad, I would’ve done anything to spare you from that moment. But I’m also glad we went through it together because that day made us both stronger. I want you to always remember one thing: you won’t always win in life, and that’s ok. Because losing isn’t what matters. What matters is how you lose. Who you choose to be when everything goes dark. When you have to choose between staying on the ground and getting back up.
I think God wanted me to go through that moment to teach me something no victory ever could. Character doesn’t show up when everything’s going your way. It shows up when life throws its hardest day at you, and you know what I found? After going through that hell, I’m stronger than I was before, because a champion isn’t someone who never falls. It’s someone who always finds a reason to get back up.
That’s all I want for you. Not that you always win. but that you’re never afraid to lose. That no defeat ever gets to tell you who you are. Only you get to decide that, and no matter what happens, always remember this – Character is the one victory no one can ever take away from you.”
Check out Ilia Topuria’s comments below:
Ilia Topuria breaks his silence following his defeat to Justin Gaethje with an emotional message to his son, Hugo:
“A champion isn’t someone who never falls. It’s someone who always finds a reason to get back up.
Character is the only victory no one can take away from you.”… pic.twitter.com/Vncjy6mUU8
In the same post, Topuria also announced:
“We are back”
Ferran Torres was one of the first to react to Ilia Topuria’s clip.
Check out his reaction below:
What’s next for Ilia Topuria?
While “El Matador” wants an immediate title rematch, Justin Gaethje has rejected the offer. “The Highlight” believes he made Ilia Topuria quit twice on June 14, and now the Georgian-Spaniard needs to return to winning ways before thinking about a title rematch.
Another potential opponent for Topuria’s return bout is his arch-rival, Paddy Pimblett. This is one of the biggest grudge matches the matchmakers can think of right now, and it is rumored to happen later this year in December at UFC 335.
Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.
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