"Domestic violence → Suspicion of intimidation → UFC belt extortion crisis" The monster, who dominated the two weight classes, finally declared a "surprise return"... Chances are high that we'll try the title again

*This content was translated by AI.

Ilya Topuria (28, Spain), a two-weight champion who briefly left Octagon due to privacy controversies, including allegations of domestic violence and intimidation, announced her early return.

American martial arts media Bloody Elbow reported on the 17th (Korea time) that Topuria had announced his plan to return to the Octagon much earlier than expected, adding, "Even Topuria has already spotted two potential opponents."

According to reports, Topuria recently responded directly to a fan's question about when to return through personal social networking services (SNS), "between April and June." It is a much faster return schedule than the local media originally predicted.

Topuria's desired return match opponent is clear. It is the winner of the provisional title match between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaic, the main event of "UFC 324" on the 26th. Topuria dismissed the possibility of a match against lightweight No. 1 Arman Sarukyan, saying, "I can easily knock him out." Instead, he strongly expressed his willingness to play an integrated title match with the winner between Pimblett and Gaichi.

Earlier, Topuria beat Charles Oliveira with a first-round KO at UFC 317 in June to become the vacant lightweight champion. He won the featherweight division and the lightweight division, becoming a two-weight champion, but later postponed the first defense game due to personal problems and announced the suspension of his activities.

It was a legal dispute with her ex-lover that held Topuria back.

According to Spanish media Mundo Deportivo, Topuria is fighting the truth over domestic violence and intimidation charges with Giorina Uskategi, a former lover and mother of her second child.

Uskategi claimed Topuria committed domestic violence. To this, Topuria strongly denied this and countered that he had been threatened.

Topuria has submitted evidence such as transcripts and texts to law enforcement authorities. Through ESPN and others, Topuria said, "I was threatened to spread false charges if I did not comply with financial demands," adding, "This is not true at all. We have taken legal action to protect our family and reputation," he said.

In response, Uskategi's legal representative countered in a statement, saying, "The current issue is a private procedure involving minors," and "Please refrain from speaking publicly about the ongoing trial."

Topuria and Uskategi met in Miami several years ago and had a daughter in June last year, but the relationship reportedly settled shortly after Topuria achieved two weight class titles.

The legal dispute is still ongoing, but the direction of the title will also be in doubt as Topuria himself mentions his return in April. Currently, UFC lightweights are facing a clash between Pimblett and Gaichi for the provisional championship due to Topuria's absence.

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*This content was translated by AI.