Ilia Topuria nicknamed “El Matador” is a Georgian-Spanish mixed martial artist who has taken the UFC by storm
Born on January 21, 1997, Topuria became the first fighter from Georgia and Spain to win a UFC title.
With perfect records in featherweight and lightweight divisions and a #1 rank in UFC’s men’s pound-for-pound list as of July 1, 2025, his rise is as rapid as it is remarkable.
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Table of Contents
Who Is Ilia Topuria?
Ilia Topuria, the undefeated UFC Featherweight Champion, is widely regarded as a prime example of the strength found in family bonds.1
Hailing from Georgia and Spain, Topuria is a professional mixed martial artist who competes in the UFC’s featherweight division.
A Rising Star in the UFC
Officially representing his homeland, Georgia, Ilia Topuria is the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion as of February 2024.
His journey to the top of the featherweight division is a testament to his skill, determination, and the support of his family.
Cueste lo que cueste debes confiar en tu instinto. Me uno con Hugo a las leyendas en #KarateKidLegends. Exclusivamente en cines 8 de agosto. @sonypictures_es pic.twitter.com/hWlNrLGHpa
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) July 22, 2025
A Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
In 2018, Ilia Topuria debuted in an international competition at Cage MMA Finland and became the first Georgian recipient of a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
This achievement highlighted his proficiency in grappling and ground fighting, setting him apart from his competitors.
A Record of Excellence in the UFC
Ilia Topuria’s success in the UFC is undeniable. He has earned the Performance of the Night award thrice in the UFC, showcasing his ability to deliver spectacular performances inside the octagon.
Additionally, he has secured a Fight of the Night accolade, demonstrating his willingness to engage in exciting battles for the fans.
Dominance in Mix Fight Events
Before joining the UFC, Ilia Topuria won the MFE Featherweight Championship, showcasing his dominance within Mix Fight Events.
His victory in this prestigious championship further solidified his reputation as a top-tier featherweight fighter.
Ilia Topuria is a rising star in the UFC’s featherweight division. His impressive skills, coupled with his unwavering determination and the support of his family, have propelled him to the top of the sport.
As the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, Topuria’s future in the sport looks brighter than ever, and fans can expect to see more spectacular performances from him in the years to come.
Ilia Topuria’s Siblings
Ilia Topuria, the undefeated UFC Featherweight Champion, comes from a family deeply rooted in martial arts.2
Let’s take a closer look at his siblings, particularly his brother Aleksandre, and their journey in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).
Ilia Topuria has three siblings, two sisters named Mari Tlashadze and Ana Tlashadze, and an older brother, Aleksandre Topuria.
While not much is known about his sisters besides their names, the bond between the Topuria siblings is strong, with a shared passion for martial arts.
Aleksandre Topuria: Ilia’s Older Brother
Aleksandre Topuria, Ilia’s older brother, bears a striking physical resemblance to him. Like Ilia, Aleksandre is also a talented mixed martial artist.
The brothers have been training in martial arts since a young age, demonstrating their dedication and passion for the sport.
Aleksandre’s Professional Fighting Career
- Aleksandre Topuria is making a name for himself in the world of professional fighting. With a record of five wins and one loss in six fights, he is proving to be a formidable competitor.
- Aleksandre made his debut in the regional Spanish MMA circuit in April 2015, securing a victory against Andres Braulio Lazaro Chiguano.
- Despite facing a setback with his first and only loss to Ivo Ivanov, Aleksandre remains determined to excel in MMA. His presence in Ilia’s corner during fights further highlights the strong bond between the Topuria brothers.
- Ilia Topuria’s family, particularly his siblings, plays a significant role in his life and career.
- Their shared passion for martial arts has not only brought them closer together but has also propelled them to achieve remarkable success in the world of MMA.
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Ilia Topuria’s Parents
Ilia Topuria, born on January 21, 1997, in Halle Westfalen, Germany, to Zaza Topuria and InGa Topuria, has emerged as a rising star in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).3
His journey in MMA has been deeply influenced by his parents, who have played a significant role in his development and success.
Early Life and Family Background
Raised by Georgian parents, Ilia Topuria’s upbringing was imbued with a strong sense of heritage and tradition.
His family’s move to Spain when he was 15 years old, driven by economic circumstances, marked a pivotal moment in his life.
It was in Alicante, Spain, where Ilia discovered his passion for MMA, setting him on a path to pursue a career in the sport.
The Role of Parents in Ilia’s Career
Zaza and InGa Topuria have been instrumental in nurturing Ilia’s passion for MMA. They recognized his talent and dedication from a young age, providing unwavering support for his training and career aspirations.
Their encouragement and guidance have been key factors in Ilia’s development as a fighter.
Support and Encouragement
Despite limited information about Ilia’s parents, it is evident that they have been a constant source of support and encouragement throughout his journey in MMA.
Their belief in his abilities and their willingness to make sacrifices for his dream have been invaluable.
The influence of Ilia Topuria’s parents on his MMA career cannot be overstated. Their support, encouragement, and guidance have been crucial in shaping him into the fighter he is today.
As Ilia continues to make strides in the world of MMA, it is clear that his parents’ influence will remain a driving force behind his success.
Ilia Topuria’s Net Worth as of 2025
Ilia Topuria’s Achievements in MMA Translates to a Wealthy Lifestyle
Ilia Topuria’s remarkable achievements in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) have not only brought him fame but also considerable wealth.
His estimated net worth, ranging from $3-4 million USD, underscores his financial success. Currently residing in the beautiful city of Alicante, Spain, Topuria’s lifestyle mirrors his successful career in MMA.
Diverse Income Streams for Ilia Topuria
Apart from his earnings from fighting, Ilia Topuria leverages his popularity and influence in the MMA world to generate income through endorsements and promotions for various fitness brands.
This diversified income stream has significantly contributed to his impressive net worth.
Ilia Topuria’s Lavish Lifestyle in Alicante, Spain
Living in Alicante, Spain, Ilia Topuria enjoys a lavish lifestyle, which is a testament to his financial success in MMA.
The picturesque coastal city provides a serene backdrop for Topuria’s life outside the ring, offering a balance between his intense training sessions and leisure time.
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FAQs
Q1: What are Ilia Topuria’s weight divisions and records?
A: He held titles in both featherweight and lightweight divisions, remaining undefeated in the UFC through both reigns.
Q2: When did he win UFC titles?
A: Featherweight – UFC 298 (Feb 17, 2024), Lightweight – UFC 317 (June 28, 2025).
Q3: Who is his next opponent?
A: No official match has been confirmed yet, but Arman Tsarukyan is considered the likely challenger.
Q4: What is his fighting style?
A: A complete fighter—strong striker, grappler, wrestler, and jiu-jitsu black belt.
Q5: What’s next for him?
A: Likely his first defense at lightweight—possibly against Tsarukyan—while potential rivals like Pimblett and Gaethje remain in the conversation.
