Ilia Topuria has carried the nickname “El Matador” for years, embodying his fearless fighting style and unshakable confidence. Fans recognize “El Matador” as the undefeated fighter who has knocked out former UFC champions. However, as he embarks on a new chapter in his career, he has decided to leave the nickname behind, sparking curiosity about whether he will adopt a new one or compete without it.
After keeping them in suspense, the Spanish fighter finally revealed his new identity. He shared that ‘El Matador’ had shaped his entire journey, leading him to this moment. Now, as he looks ahead, he will step into the Octagon under a new name that is ‘La Leyenda’, which translates as ‘The Legend.’ Speaking at a ceremony in Toledo, Spain, Topuria said:
“It’s always what I say: You need to believe. You need to see to believe. I believe it first, and then I see it. So the nickname that will accompany me in my next fights is going to be ‘La Leyenda.’”
#UFC champ — at least, for now — Ilia Topuria has a NEW nickname ahead of lightweight move. Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/rFNrz5641q
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) March 25, 2025
Topuria’s explosive title defense against Max Holloway at UFC 308 grabbed all the attention. With a performance that left no doubts about his dominance, he’s now one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC. The victory secured his place among the UFC’s biggest stars, drawing even more attention to his rising legacy.
Charles Oliveira Confident He’ll Knock Out Ilia Topuria at Lightweight
The UFC’s lightweight division remains one of the most stacked, but the title picture is still uncertain. With Topuria moving up to 155 lbs, fighters are already calling him out, including Charles Oliveira, who believes he can knock out the undefeated star. Many expected Topuria to face Islam Makhachev, but with Makhachev turning down the fight, a clash with Oliveira seemed unlikely. Speaking to Oddspedia, Oliveira said:
“Whoever I get told to fight, I’m going to fight. I have nothing but respect for Ilia Topuria, but this is lightweight. It’s the most difficult division you have ever seen and I have power in my hands. I believe in my Jiu-Jitsu, but I believe that I could knock Ilia Topuria out.” Olivera said.
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Charles Oliveira is open welcoming Ilia Topuria to lightweight, despite Chael Sonnen claiming otherwise. pic.twitter.com/1CQUOsjW5S
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) March 18, 2025
As of now, Topuria’s next move in the lightweight division remains uncertain. Fans are unsure who he will face next—whether he’ll get a title fight right away or need to secure another win before competing for the belt.
Also Read: UFC Presenter Cites Ilia Topuria As The Next Big Thing Of UFC For THIS Reason
