UFC light-weight champion Ilya Topria could return to the Octagon earlier than anticipated in a matchup in opposition to the winner of the UFC 324 headliner.
Prime UFC light-weight contenders Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett will struggle for the interim UFC light-weight title at UFC 324 subsequent weekend. Ilia Topuria, who gained the then-vacant linear light-weight belt final summer time, is presently on hiatus as a consequence of points away from the cage.
Pimblett lately requested Topria to relinquish his light-weight belt to be able to transfer the division ahead. Prime contender Arman Tsarukyan, who was stripped of a brand new title shot following his latest victory over Dan Hooker, can be subsequent in line for the winner of the Pimblett vs. Gaethje struggle if an interim title protection is required.
Topria’s continued hiatus led to hypothesis that he would vacate the title and transfer as much as welterweight to problem new champion Islam Makhachev. Topria envisions a future showdown with Makhachev, however he is not slowing down on his pursuit of light-weight historical past.
For the primary time since saying his absence from competitors, Topria gave followers an in depth replace on when he’ll return to the Octagon in 2026.
Ilya Topria reveals schedule for return to UFC forward of UFC 324 interim title struggle
In two latest tweets, Topuria shared his most detailed return schedule because the UFC hiatus started.
“April to June,” Pria answered.
“Paddy and Justin are the winners.”
This eliminates Topuria’s earliest plans to return at UFC 327 in Miami. The cardboard will see the return of Paulo Costa, Dominick Reyes, Tatiana Suarez, and different prime names within the UFC.
If Topuria returns in June, he may return on the subsequent card in opposition to the winner of Pimblett vs. Gaethje on the White Home garden. The cardboard is anticipated to be finalized and introduced within the coming weeks, with Conor McGregor and Jon Jones hoping to earn a spot on the occasion.
