Ilia Topuria caused many reactions with his comments on wanting to leave the UFC featherweight division behind for a move up to lightweight. UFC contender Diego Lopes was one of the many who were caught off guard by the 145-pound champion's bold remarks.

During a recent interview with Spanish radio show El Partidazo de COPE, Topuria dropped a bombshell on his UFC career, suggesting that he’s likely competed at featherweight for the final time and will vacate the belt in order to move up to lightweight.

In October, ‘El Matador’ viciously KO’d the UFC’s baddest motherf*cker Max Holloway in Abu Dhabi and appeared to be on track for a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski in 2025. However, that may no longer be the case after Topuria said in no uncertain terms that he’s officially done competing in the weight class.

UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has his eyes set on bigger challenges. Topuria has one featherweight title defense on his resume but is considering moving up to lightweight. Topuria, 27, mulled over earning a UFC lightweight title shot.

Top UFC Featherweight Diego Lopes also says he'd fight Alexander Volkanovski if Ilia Topuria moves up a division.

Renato Moicano advises UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria against moving up to lightweight. After back-to-back knockouts of Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, Topuria recently hinted at a move up to 155 pounds.

UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria's coach confirms his plans to move up to lightweight and explains why. Topuria (16-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) surprised many when he hinted at leaving featherweight by showing interest in Charles Oliveira.