Topuria Sets Date for Title Defense – Final PPV of 2025 Will Explode!

Ilia Topuria, the undefeated Georgian-Spanish sensation and current UFC Lightweight Champion, is reportedly scheduled to defend his title in December 2025, headlining the UFC’s final pay-per-view event of the year. After a meteoric rise to the top of the 155-pound division, Topuria’s next move is being closely monitored, and all signs now point toward a blockbuster main event to close out the year.

The December slot is traditionally reserved for high-stakes title fights, and Topuria’s inclusion is no surprise. With the division stacked with dangerous contenders, his choice of opponent — and performance — could define the next phase of his championship reign.

Topuria’s Rise and Lightweight Takeover

Ilia Topuria shook the MMA world earlier this year by capturing the UFC Lightweight Championship in stunning fashion. Known for his knockout power, elite wrestling, and unmatched confidence, Topuria delivered on his promises and now finds himself as one of the UFC’s most talked-about stars.

After vacating the featherweight title to fully commit to the 155-pound division, Topuria immediately set his sights on dominance. His title win at UFC 317 validated his move and further proved that he’s not just another hype train — he’s a generational talent with the mindset of a destroyer.

The December Defense: A Defining Moment

According to multiple insiders and UFC veterans, Topuria is locked in to defend his belt this December. The timing is critical for several reasons:

• It allows Topuria to close out the year as an active champion.

• It gives the UFC a huge headliner for their final PPV card, boosting buys and global attention.

• It sets up the narrative for a potential multi-fight reign heading into 2026.

The December fight will likely be one of the most anticipated title bouts of the year, as fans eagerly await confirmation of the challenger.

Who Will Face Topuria?

While the UFC has not officially announced the opponent, several names are being discussed behind the scenes, and each presents a different narrative.

Arman Tsarukyan

The #1 contender and arguably the most technically dangerous opponent in the division. Tsarukyan is known for his relentless pace, excellent grappling, and striking that continues to evolve.

Rumors suggest that Tsarukyan may have already signed the contract, despite Topuria’s earlier claims that he had no interest in fighting him. Topuria had previously stated he’d “rather vacate the belt” than fight Arman, citing a lack of excitement and low name value. However, if this bout is truly happening, it could be the most legitimate title defense Topuria could make in terms of meritocracy.

Paddy Pimblett

Topuria and Paddy Pimblett have a history of bad blood. From online trash talk to near brawls during UFC events, the tension is real. While Pimblett is far from being a top-ranked contender, his star power and marketability have kept him in the conversation.

A fight between Topuria and Pimblett would draw massive attention, particularly from casual fans, but it would also generate criticism from purists who believe Paddy hasn’t earned a shot at UFC gold.

Still, Topuria himself has hinted that he’d enjoy “kicking Paddy’s ass,” and the UFC is never shy about booking fights that sell.

Justin Gaethje

The fan-favorite brawler and former interim champion is always one fight away from a title shot. Gaethje has recently expressed interest in facing Topuria, and the matchup would be a true clash of styles — precision vs. chaos.

Topuria, however, has downplayed Gaethje’s threat level in recent interviews, suggesting he’s not impressed by the American’s resume. That being said, Gaethje’s name alone brings instant PPV value, and the UFC may find it hard to resist this pairing.

Topuria’s Strategy: Legacy vs. Entertainment

Ilia Topuria walks the fine line between fighter and showman. On one hand, he craves legacy and respect — on the other, he understands the entertainment side of the business.

Choosing Tsarukyan would win him respect among purists and hardcore fans, as it’s widely seen as the toughest matchup available. Choosing Pimblett or Gaethje, however, would bring bigger box office returns and wider mainstream coverage.

Topuria must now balance the pursuit of legacy with the pressure of staying marketable — a classic dilemma faced by many modern champions.

Sean O’Malley’s Insight

Current Bantamweight Champion Sean O’Malley recently commented on the situation, offering a fighter’s perspective. According to O’Malley, he understands why Topuria might be hesitant to fight someone like Tsarukyan.

“You gotta be smart,” O’Malley said. “Fighting someone like Arman is high risk, low reward. The guy’s a beast, but he’s not selling pay-per-views. Paddy or Gaethje? That’s where the money is.”

This statement captures the reality of modern MMA, where drawing power often trumps rankings.

What’s at Stake in December?

For Topuria, this title defense is more than just another fight. It’s a defining moment in his career:

• A dominant win over a top contender like Tsarukyan would silence critics who accuse him of ducking.

• Beating Pimblett or Gaethje would grow his mainstream appeal, even if it comes with questions about matchmaking.

• A loss, on the other hand, would halt his momentum and give his detractors exactly what they’re looking for.

The final PPV of 2025 could either cement Topuria’s reign or completely reshape the lightweight landscape.

The UFC’s End-of-Year Spectacle

Historically, the UFC ends each year with a bang — and this year will be no different. With Topuria headlining, expect a stacked card, a global media tour, and intense build-up leading into fight night.

Whether it’s pure violence, drama, or legacy, this fight promises to deliver it all.

Conclusion

As Ilia Topuria prepares to defend his UFC Lightweight Championship in December, the spotlight is brighter than ever. Unbeaten, confident, and polarizing, Topuria is already a star — but this next fight could determine if he becomes a legend.

Will he take on the dangerous Tsarukyan and prove he’s the best in the world? Or will he opt for a box-office brawl with Pimblett or Gaethje?

Whatever the UFC decides, one thing is certain: Ilia Topuria’s next move will shape the future of the lightweight division — and perhaps, the entire UFC landscape.