Ilia Topuria Abandons ‘El Matador’ – What’s Next for the Undefeated Champion?

Ilia Topuria has sent shockwaves through the MMA world with a cryptic announcement that he will step into the Octagon with a “new identity.” This revelation, coming just as he prepares for his lightweight debut, has left fans buzzing with speculation. Will this transformation be just a symbolic change, or is Topuria planning something far bigger?

As one of the most dominant fighters in the UFC today, Topuria’s move to lightweight is already a major storyline. But now, his mysterious message adds a whole new layer of intrigue.

The Rise of “El Matador”—A” Name That Defined a Champion

For years, Topuria has been known as “El Matador,” a nickname that originated from his days training at the Climent Club gym in Alicante, Spain. His ferocious fighting style, precision, and ability to finish fights quickly made the name fitting.

With nine first-round finishes in his 16 professional wins, Topuria has built a reputation as a ruthless finisher. However, despite embracing the nickname, he has admitted that he wasn’t a fan of it at first.

“El Matador has been my ally in every fight,” Topuria once said. But now he appears ready to leave that identity behind. His recent message—”The next time I step into the Octagon, I’ll have a new identity. A new era”—signals a major transformation in his career.

Topuria’s Next Target: Islam Makhachev’s Lightweight Throne

With his move to lightweight, Ilia Topuria has one goal in mind—becoming a two-division champion. And he isn’t interested in taking small steps. Instead, his sights are set directly on UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

Despite his confidence, Makhachev and his camp are dismissing the idea of an immediate title shot. UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov has suggested that Topuria must first prove himself against top contenders such as Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, Dustin Poirier, or Justin Gaethje.

However, Topuria has never been one to take the long road. He shocked the world by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski to claim the featherweight title and then stopped Max Holloway in his first title defense. Now, he wants to do the same in the lightweight division—whether the UFC agrees or not.

Will Topuria’s Power and Speed Translate to Lightweight?

One of the biggest questions surrounding Topuria’s move to 155 pounds is whether his knockout power and speed will be as effective against bigger, stronger opponents.

At featherweight, Topuria had the strength advantage over nearly everyone he faced. But lightweight is an entirely different battlefield. Fighters in this division cut from 175 to 180 pounds, meaning Topuria may no longer be the stronger man in the cage.

Additionally, his cardio will be tested like never before. Adding muscle and fighting larger opponents demands more energy, and lightweights like Makhachev, Tsarukyan, and Justin Gaethje push an insane pace. Can Topuria handle five rounds of high-level war?
A New Identity, A New Era—What Does Topuria’s Transformation Mean?
Topuria’s cryptic message about a “new identity” has led to plenty of speculation. Could this mean:

A change in fighting style? Will he rely more on his grappling and cardio instead of his knockout power?
A new nickname? If he leaves “El Matador” behind, what will he call himself next?
A shift in mentality? Is he looking to make a statement about his dominance beyond just the featherweight division?
Whatever the case, Topuria’s transformation is making headlines, and the MMA world is paying attention.

Beyond the Octagon: Topuria’s Influence Grows

Even as he prepares for his lightweight takeover, Topuria remains a major figure outside the cage.

Recently, he posted a collaboration with Disney, teaming up with influencers like Peldanyos, Iván Háchez, Alicia ByHermoss, Lucii, and kickboxing star Alejandro Jiménez Hidalgo (Halcón). In a promotional video for Daredevil: Born Again, Topuria showcased his striking power on the punching bag, blending combat sports with entertainment.

Additionally, this weekend, Topuria will attend WOW 17 at Madrid Arena, one of Spain’s fastest-growing MMA events. By staying in the spotlight, Topuria is ensuring that his name remains on everyone’s mind—not just in the UFC, but in mainstream media as well.

Who Will Welcome Topuria to Lightweight?
With Topuria’s lightweight debut approaching, one of the biggest questions is: Who will be his first opponent?

If he doesn’t get an immediate title shot against Makhachev, some possible matchups include:

Justin Gaethje: A brutal war against one of the UFC’s most dangerous brawlers.
Charles Oliveira: A test against a former champion with elite jiu-jitsu.
Arman Tsarukyan: A wrestling-heavy nightmare that would challenge Topuria’s ground game.
Dustin Poirier: A high-profile fight against one of the UFC’s best strikers.
No matter who he faces, Topuria’s journey at lightweight is guaranteed to be electrifying.

A New Era Begins: Is Topuria Ready to Conquer Lightweight?
Topuria’s bold personality and fearless fighting style have already made him a superstar in the featherweight division. Now, he’s set to shake up lightweight with the same confidence and aggression.

But the question remains: Is he truly ready for this challenge?

If history has shown us anything, it’s that Ilia Topuria thrives when people doubt him. From silencing critics against Volkanovski to dominating Max Holloway, he has repeatedly proved he belongs among the best.

Now, as he embarks on his new era, one thing is clear: The lightweight division has been put on notice.