Ilya Topuria is already considering a career beyond the UFC, with plans to transition into boxing in the near future. The two-division world champion, who holds titles in both lightweight and featherweight categories, is set to defend his lightweight belt for the first time next year. Although he is currently taking a break from fighting, this hiatus might become permanent sooner than expected.
The Georgian fighter has long dreamed of pursuing boxing and aims to make that move once he finishes his MMA journey. At just 28 years old, having achieved so much, the shift to boxing could be imminent.
Unlike fighters like Conor McGregor or Francis Ngannou, who ventured into boxing without fully settling in MMA, Topuria wants to master mixed martial arts first before committing entirely to boxing. He doesn’t plan to switch back and forth but intends to focus completely on boxing after his UFC career.
Topuria shared in a recent interview with Marca, “It’s no secret I’ve always wanted to test my skills in boxing, but I believe those who try to chase two goals at once usually fail to achieve either. I want to complete my MMA story first, then move on to boxing full-time because preparing for both simultaneously isn’t professional. Boxing demands a completely different training regimen.”
He acknowledged the significant adjustment required, saying, “Training for boxing is very different. It’s not the Octagon but the ring, and adapting takes time. Once I finish MMA, I won’t linger long before moving on to boxing, and I plan to surprise many people there.”
Fan Take: This news is significant for fight fans because Topuria’s departure would mark the loss of a dominant UFC champion at his prime, potentially shaking up the lightweight division. Additionally, his full commitment to boxing underscores the evolving landscape where MMA fighters increasingly seek new challenges, bridging combat sports like never before.
