Fans hoping to see the UFC lightweight champion anytime soon may be in for a bit of a wait.
The 155-pound division has been getting plenty of attention following the UFC’s debut event in Qatar, where Arman Tsarukyan submitted Dan Hooker in the main event. That win has many calling for Tsarukyan to get his shot at the title.
Just days before that, Paddy Pimblett’s clash with Ilia Topuria brought their rivalry back into focus, which could complicate Tsarukyan’s hopes of facing the Spaniard.
Despite all the talk around who should get the next title shot, it does not look like there will be any movement on that front soon.
Spanish reporter Alvaro Colmenero expects Ilia Topuria to return in Spring, not January or February
Back in October, Dana White shared a few thoughts on when Topuria might be back and who he could face for his first title defence.
With plenty of names being floated to headline the UFC’s first big event on Paramount+, UFC 324 on January 24, White gave the impression that ‘El Matador’ was near the top of the list.
But with reports now leaning towards Kayla Harrison defending her title against Amanda Nunes as the leading option, it appears we may not see the lightweight belt contested again until spring 2026.
Alvaro Colmenero, a Spanish journalist with a solid track record when it comes to Topuria updates, has indicated that there has been a shift in direction regarding the UFC’s two-division champion.
“Things have changed a lot,” Colmenero said as HappyPunch quoted and published on X.
“There have been private situations, and you’re going to be very surprised at what’s going to happen in lightweight.
“I can confirm that Ilia will not fight in January. February? I doubt it a lot. If you ask me, I think Ilia will fight in spring.”
Arman Tsarukyan accuses Ilia Topuria of decline
Tsarukyan’s frustration is unlikely to ease with this news, and he has made a habit of taking aim at Topuria on social media.
The Armenian has been vocal since the champion’s rise at UFC 317, and after his own victory in Qatar, his comments have only intensified.
His latest post on X (formerly Twitter) continued that theme, with Tsarukyan suggesting the champion is no longer at his best.
“Ilia’s fall-off is wild. From El Matador to El Pato… and now all the way to El Patético and El Panocha,” Tsarukyan posted.
Ilia Topuria unlikely for UFC Paramount debut after insider delivers bad news
