Ilia Topuria Celebrated in Georgia: Fans Surround His Car – What’s Next for the UFC

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When Ilia Topuria drove through Georgia, numerous fans were already waiting for him. The native of Georgia stood up on the passenger seat to wave to people at the windows and on the street. For an athlete who lost the featherweight championship to Justin Gaethje, it was a visible sign of support in his homeland.

The encounter with his compatriots held special meaning for Topuria. ABC.es reports that he has always carried Georgia close to his heart, even after moving to Alicante at the age of 15. Throughout his MMA career, he has therefore represented both the flag of Georgia and that of his second homeland, Spain.

Why Fans in Georgia Welcomed Topuria

A Title for His Own People

Topuria had won his world crown with a second-round knockout of Alexander Volkanovski. He then traveled to Georgia to show the belt to his compatriots. Streets and public squares subsequently filled with fans who wanted to give the successful fighter a ceremonial welcome.

The same scene is repeating during his current trip. According to ABC.es, people had gathered around his vehicle while he drove through the country. Because the crowd could not be reached from outside, he stood up on his seat. This allowed him to accept the cheers of his compatriots without interrupting his journey.

For you as a fan, this means Topuria’s popularity in Georgia is not a short-term reaction to a single appearance. His connection to the country goes back to his family life and was further strengthened by winning the title.

Topuria Prepares for UFC Riyadh

Training and a Coaching Role

After his loss to Justin Gaethje in Washington, Topuria is still in a process of recovery and rebuilding. He wants to complete his rehabilitation before returning to the octagon. He is therefore currently training in Georgia.

In a few weeks, he is expected to travel to Qatar. There, he will take on the role of head coach for his brother Aleksandre at the next UFC event in Riyadh. His trip is therefore not only a return home, but also the next step in a new role within the UFC.

Which Opponent Could Be Possible After Gaethje

Several Scenarios, but No Confirmed Fight Card

To regain his title, Topuria’s next steps initially depend on whether Justin Gaethje continues in MMA. If the American retires, the scenarios described by ABC.es could open up several paths for Topuria.

One option would be a rematch against Gaethje. The report also names a fight against Paddy Pimblett as another possibility. If Gaethje retires and the lightweight title becomes vacant, Topuria could also face Arman Tsarukyan. The UFC’s matchmakers and Dana White were identified in the source as those involved in this planning.

These names are not, however, part of a confirmed fight card. The report describes possible paths while Topuria first focuses on healing his injuries and preparing for his role as his brother’s coach.

A Homecoming Moment with a Clear Connection

Topuria’s return to Georgia brings together two sides of his career: the title he once celebrated before his compatriots and his current task of regaining his fitness. The jubilant welcome shows that fans still closely associate his journey with their homeland. That makes it easier to understand why, after his setback against Gaethje, his bond with Georgia remains an important part of the story.

What matters now: His health, his work with Aleksandre in Riyadh and the UFC’s decision about his next opponent. Until then, the drive through Georgia is more than a brief appearance—it is a tribute to a champion who connected two countries through his career.

Further details about the encounter with fans and the possible next opponents can be found at ABC.es.