UFC star says he faces extortion plot with ‘false domestic abuse allegations’
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UFC star Ilia Topuria opened up about the reasons why she decided to step away from the cage for at least the first half of 2026 while dealing with a serious personal matter.
Topuria defeated Charles Oliveira for the UFC Lightweight Championship in June, improving to 17-0 in his career and 9-0 since joining the UFC. Dana White said Topuria will remain the champion as he navigates the darkness of the situation he faces.
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Ilia Topuria (red gloves) before the fight against Charles Oliveira (blue gloves) during UFC 317 at T-Mobile Arena on June 28, 2025. (Stephen R. Sylvanie/Imagn Images)
Topuria said in a statement Monday that he faced threats of trumped-up allegations of domestic violence.
“In recent months, I have been subject to severe and unacceptable pressure, including threats to spread false allegations of domestic abuse unless my financial demands were met,” Topuria said. “These accusations are completely 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 presented to the relevant judicial authorities to take legal action for attempted extortion, falsification of evidence, embezzlement of funds and personal property and multiple threats.”
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Giorgina Uzcategui Badell watches as her husband, Ilia Topuria of Spain, is interviewed during the UFC 317 event at T-Mobile Arena on June 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Topuria said he initially decided to remain silent to protect his family’s privacy, but added that he could not allow more “false narratives” to take hold.
“Many people have faced similar situations and time and time again the judicial system has finally clarified the facts,” he added. “Today I step forward not only for my family and myself, but also to demonstrate that no one should be forced to give in to intimidation, manipulation or fear. Those who know me can attest that I have never participated 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.”
Topuria said he would not comment further on the matter until the legal process is complete.
News Digital has contacted Giorgina Uzcategui Badell for comment. The couple has two children together.
Ilia Topuria celebrates his championship victory against Alexander Volkanovski during UFC 298 at the Honda Center on February 17, 2024. (Gary A. Vasquez/USA TODAY Sports)
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Topuria was No. 2 in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, but it is unclear when he will fight again.
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Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor at News Digital.