UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria posted a statement on social media on Monday morning claiming he’s being extorted with “entirely unfounded” allegations of domestic abuse “unless financial demands were met.”
Topuria, who less than a month ago revealed he would not fight in the first quarter of 2026 to instead focus on dealing with “a difficult moment in my personal life,” added more information to the situation.
“My initial decision to remain silent was made solely to protect my children, who are the most important part of my life,” Topuria wrote in a long statement. “However, I have come to understand that silence, under these circumstances, does not protect the truth — it allows false narratives to take hold.”
Topuria said he would not make any further public statements on the situation “out of respect for my children and the ongoing legal proceedings.”
Read his full statement below.
Over the past several weeks, I have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title. This was not a decision I took lightly. However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point when you must address them directly.
In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to disseminate false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met. These allegations are entirely unfounded. The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a...
UFC star Ilia Topuria opened up about the reasons why he decided to step away from the cage for at least the first half of 2026 as he deals with a serious personal matter. Topuria defeated Charles...