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Ilia Topuria is facing what he says are false domestic violence allegations. | Getty/UFC
When Ilia Topuria recently announced that he would be stepping away from the UFC to focus on his personal life, speculation ran rampant regarding the exact nature of the hiatus.
While the Georgian-Spaniard didn’t get into specifics initially, he has now decided that speaking out is necessary. In a post on social media, Topuria revealed that he is facing “false allegations of domestic abuse.”
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“In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to disseminate false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met. These allegations are entirely unfounded. The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a matter of evidence,” Topuria wrote in a statement published in both Spanish and English on Instagram.
“All relevant evidence has been carefully preserved and documented, including audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video material. This evidence has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities in order to pursue legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.
“My initial decision to remain silent was made solely to protect my children, who are the most important part of my life. However, I have come to understand that silence, under these circumstances, does not protect the truth — it allows false narratives to take hold.”
Topuria does not name his wife, Georgina Badell, in the post, though previous reports have indicated that the couple have split. Topuria has two children, a son and a daughter.
The fighter known as “El Matador” began his UFC tenure at featherweight, where he was victorious in eight consecutive contests — a run that included knockout wins over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway in championship bouts. He moved up to 155 pounds earlier this year, claiming the vacant lightweight crown with a first-round KO of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Topuria is not expected to fight again until the second quarter of 2026 at the earliest. In the meantime, the promotion has booked an interim ligthweight title tilt between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett as the headliner for UFC 324 on Jan. 24.
Read Topuria’s Full Statement:
Over the past several weeks, I have made the difficult decision to temporarily step away from defending my title. This was not a decision I took lightly. However, when circumstances arise that threaten your personal integrity, your family, and your reputation, there comes a point when you must address them directly.
In recent months, I have been subjected to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to disseminate false allegations of domestic abuse unless financial demands were met. These allegations are entirely unfounded. The truth is not a matter of opinion — it is a matter of evidence.
All relevant evidence has been carefully preserved and documented, including audio recordings, written communications, witness statements, and video material. This evidence has been submitted to the appropriate judicial authorities in order to pursue legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, misappropriation of funds and personal property, and multiple threats.
My initial decision to remain silent was made solely to protect my children, who are the most important part of my life. However, I have come to understand that silence, under these circumstances, does not protect the truth — it allows false narratives to take hold.
Many individuals have faced similar situations, and time and again the legal system has ultimately clarified the facts. Today, I am stepping forward not only for my family and myself, but also to demonstrate that no one should be forced to yield to intimidation, manipulation, or fear. Those who know me can attest that I have never engaged in violence of any kind, and that my life and career have always been guided by discipline, respect, and integrity.
I have full confidence in the judicial process and will allow the legal system to determine the facts based on evidence.
Out of respect for my children and the ongoing legal proceedings, I will not be making any further public statements. I respectfully ask that speculation be avoided and that my family’s privacy be honored during this sensitive time.
The truth does not require volume — it requires facts.
Thank you.
This article first appeared at Recent News on Sherdog.com
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