FORMER UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is back in training, signaling the start of his comeback after suffering the first loss of his professional MMA career.
After spending several months away from the public eye, Topuria was recently seen working out again in a promotional video, giving fans an early glimpse of the “El Matador” preparing for his next chapter inside the Octagon.
Topuria’s return to training comes after a difficult night against Justin Gaethje at the UFC White House event in June, where he suffered the first defeat of his professional career.
The loss was a major setback for the Spanish-Georgian star, who had previously built an undefeated record while establishing himself as one of the UFC’s top fighters.
Topuria also had to deal with injuries from the bout, making his time away from competition about more than simply recovering from a defeat.
Now, his return to training suggests that the former champion is moving forward with his rehabilitation and beginning preparations for another UFC fight.
However, his next opponent remains uncertain.
UFC CEO Dana White has previously indicated that a rematch with Gaethje could be considered, while a long-awaited matchup with Paddy Pimblett remains another possibility.
For now, neither an official opponent nor a fight date has been announced for Topuria.
After experiencing defeat for the first time in his professional career, “El Matador” appears ready to begin the climb back this time carrying the lessons of his biggest setback with him. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)
