Dana White gives update on Ilia Topuria’s octagon return

Former two-division champion Ilia Topuria‘s octagon return is likely just around the corner.

The 29-year old last fought on the UFC Freedom 250 fight card at the White House in June and lost to Justin Gaethje. He took substantial damage in the defeat with his corner throwing in the towel following the fourth frame.

Back in training, Topuria has teased his return in social media posts and UFC CEO Dana White gave an update on when we can expect to see “El Matador” back in the octagon.

“In ‘27,” White told the Jim Rome Show about Topuria’s return. “He’ll come back in early [2027] and we’re working on that, too.

“That entire lightweight division — you’ve got [Justin] Gaethje, Topuria, Arman Tsarukyan, [Charles] Oliveira, Paddy Pimblett, [Max] Holloway, the whole top 10 is straight killers. It’s the best and most bad-ass division we have right now.”

A specific date and potential opponent was not named by the UFC CEO, but there are plenty of options. An immediate rematch with Gaethje seems unlikely with Gaethje rejecting the idea. It’s also still unknown whether Gaethje will fight again or retire. Out of the fighters mentioned by White, only Oliveira has a bout booked.