Dana White confirms Ilia Topuria ready to fight

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Ilia Topuria is close to his UFC return.

‘El Matador’ suffered a gruelling defeat last time out. Headlining the prestigious UFC Freedom 250 at the White House, Topuria was on top of the world. He had just scored back-to-back knockouts of three legends of the sport and was confident in adding a fourth against Justin Gaethje. While he had his moments, the former two-division world champion failed to get it done and was outworked by Gaethje, who wore him down to an eventual TKO via corner stoppage.

Just three months after that fateful night, Ilia Topuria looks destined to return. After sharing a post on social media dedicated to his son, Topuria has been teasing his next appearance inside the octagon. Recovery has gone well for the 29-year-old, and Dana white is ready to see him back competing.

Speaking to Jim Rome, White announced that Topuria is ready to fight. The UFC CEO also revealed two fights he likes for the fan-favorite, saying:

“Our guys are always in touch with them. We don’t have him on the schedule right now, but listen, Topuria’s ready to fight. We’re ready for him.”

“[Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett?] Both sound good to me. They’re both great. We don’t lose with either one of those fights. They’re both great fights; I don’t know.”

Excited with the prospect of having one of the sport’s modern-day stars back, Dana White discussed what both a fight against Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett means for the UFC.

“They’re both great; we don’t have anything set… I don’t really have the answer to that question. I mean, obviously the rematch with Gaethje is incredible. And a Paddy Pimblett fight is amazing. You know, as bad as those two hate each other.”

Listen to Dana White speak about Ilia Topuria’s return below.