In a sport like mixed martial arts (MMA), one pivotal moment can change the entire trajectory of a fighter’s career. For Ilia Topuria, 2024 marked such a moment as he catapulted to the pinnacle of the featherweight division by defeating legendary fighters and showing signs of potential superstardom. With a flawless record of 16-0 in MMA and 8-0 in the UFC, Topuria is nothing short of a phenomenon. The expert opinions of seasoned fighters and commentators underscore the notion that this is merely the beginning for “El Matador.”
Topuria’s journey to the featherweight title has been both impressive and historic. February 2024 saw him knocking out Alexander Volkanovski, a feat that not only earned him the championship belt but also heralded a new face in the sport. Following this resounding victory, he defended his title against Max Holloway in a similarly electrifying fashion. Securing back-to-back victories over two of the most revered fighters in MMA history is no small achievement. His feats have drawn acclaim, leading to his designation as MMA Junkie’s 2024 Male Fighter of the Year—a testament to his skill and growing presence in the sport.
Commentator and former fighter Daniel Cormier has championed Topuria’s achievements and potential. Cormier highlights the importance of defeating established champions to claim their legacy. Just as in professional wrestling, where a new champion must pin the old to seize the spotlight, Topuria’s victories have begun to shift the paradigm in the featherweight division. Cormier asserts that Topuria can absorb the “shine” from prior champions, which is crucial in building his identity as a global superstar.
As we move forward into 2025, many are eager to see how Topuria will leverage his momentum. Critical among these considerations is the potential for the UFC to organize an event in Spain, bringing the spotlight squarely onto Topuria in his home country. Such an event would undoubtedly amplify his status and connect him more deeply with local fans. To have a champion like Topuria headline a major card in Spain is both a marketing opportunity and a celebration of national pride for MMA in the region.
Nonetheless, Cormier raises valid concerns about Topuria’s future matchups. While a rematch against Volkanovski would draw monumental interest and arguably define Topuria’s reign, the pool of viable competitors appears less exciting. Fighters like Diego Lopes and Movsar Evloev don’t yet carry the same drawing power that Volkanovski and Holloway had during their reigns. Over time, Topuria may find himself in situations where he must elevate these opponents to become headline-worthy, a challenging feat that could impact pay-per-view numbers and ultimately his legacy as champion.
Cormier’s insights speak to a broader truth within combat sports: star power is often cultivated, not simply inherited. Topuria stands on the precipice of greatness, but his journey forward will require him not only to continue winning but also to develop the narrative surrounding his fights and rivals. If he defeats established names again, he will solidify his place atop the featherweight division, but if he struggles, fan interest may wane.
For Topuria, success lies not only in combat skills but also in charisma and the ability to engage with the fanbase. The UFC thrives on its star fighters, and the capacity to become one hinges on his ability to shine in less glittering fights as well. This makes the fight against lesser-known contenders a vital part of the equation. He will need to draw fans into matches that may not have the name recognition of a Holloway or Volkanovski.
Ilia Topuria’s ascent in the UFC has been meteoric, marked by remarkable victories and emerging stardom. As we approach 2025, the excitement surrounding his reign as the featherweight champion is palpable. However, the path forward will test his abilities—not just as a fighter but as an ambassador for the sport. How he navigates the dual challenges of winning fights while building his persona as a household name may ultimately redefine not just his career but the landscape of the featherweight division itself. The question now remains: will Topuria rise to meet the challenges of stardom, or will he falter under the weight of expectation? Only time will tell.