The uncertainty in the UFC lightweight division has finally cleared, paving the way for one of the most anticipated unification bouts in recent memory.
Following Justin Gaethje’s interim title victory over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, the only missing piece of the puzzle was the status of the undisputed champion, Ilia Topuria.
After months of silence and speculation surrounding his sudden departure from competition in November 2025, an update has emerged from Topuria’s camp that signals his imminent return to the octagon. Topuria’s hiatus was amid controversy, stemming from a divorce and custody battle with his ex-wife, Giorgina Uzcategui.
The situation escalated rapidly in late 2025, with serious accusations of parental alienation, extortion, and domestic abuse leveled against the fighter. These legal distractions forced “El Matador” to clear his schedule entirely, prioritizing his personal life over his professional obligations.
The severity of the allegations and the potential financial implications of the divorce hearing led many to believe that Topuria could be sidelined for the entirety of 2026, or perhaps stripped of his title altogether. However, the tide has turned significantly in Topuria’s favor.
Ilia Topuria aiming for a June return?
According to a new report from Irati Prat of MARCA, the legal storm has passed. The publication confirmed that the case had been dismissed after Uzcategui withdrew her lawsuit. The two parties have reportedly reached a settlement agreement based on the terms Topuria originally offered, effectively closing the chapter on the legal saga.
With his personal life returning to normalcy, Topuria wasted no time in signaling his readiness to fight, posting photos of himself back in training on Instagram with the caption, “The Champ is back!!!” The timing of this resolution aligns perfectly with the UFC’s schedule for the summer.
Topuria is targeting a return on June 14 at the historic “UFC White House” event. This card, which is being planned to celebrate the United States’ semiquincentennial, would serve as the ideal backdrop for a unification clash between the lightweight champion and the interim titleholder, Gaethje.
