UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria has publicly addressed the situation surrounding a recent court hearing in Móstoles, Spain, vehemently denying false online reports that linked him to a criminal case. The fighter clarified that the proceedings were purely an administrative family matter concerning his young daughter.
Topuria Sets the Record Straight
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday after attending the hearing, a composed but emotional Topuria stated the reports were completely untrue. The 28-year-old champion explained the hearing was related to a request from his former partner, Giorgina Uzcategui Badell, seeking permission to travel with their one-and-a-half-year-old daughter to the United States. This legal process has resulted in the child currently residing with her mother.
"I’m very calm. I’m not stressed at all. I’m going to see my little girl very soon," Topuria told the media gathered outside the courthouse. He emphasized that his primary focus remains on his family, stating, "My priority is my daughter, my children, and my family."
Confusion and Legal Proceedings
The need for clarification arose after a Spanish newspaper, El Mundo, published a report last week that incorrectly suggested Topuria had testified in a criminal case. The fighter was quick to deny this on social media, directing attention to the true nature of the court visit.
According to reports from Europa Press, the case is an administrative family matter, not criminal. The child, named Giorgina after her mother, has been at the centre of these custody and travel permission discussions. The court has not yet announced a final decision on these matters. It has also been reported that Topuria has not seen his daughter for approximately four months.
Impact on UFC and Division Dynamics
This personal situation is having a direct impact on the UFC's lightweight division. Prior to these legal issues becoming public, Topuria had already indicated he would not compete in the first quarter of 2026, planning a return after March. With the case still open, this extended break may continue, causing concern among other contenders in the weight class.
Liverpool fighter Paddy Pimblett recently commented on the situation during an interview on Tom Aspinall’s YouTube channel. Pimblett expressed his desire to fight Topuria but voiced frustration over a potential division freeze. "If he’s going to sit out that long, I would rather he just vacate and stop holding the division up," Pimblett said, drawing a comparison to the lengthy delay previously seen in the heavyweight division between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall.
For now, Pimblett is scheduled to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, a bout that is expected to advance the title picture while Topuria remains focused on resolving his family matters in Spain.
