VIDEO: Ilia Topuria: UFC Champ’s Dream Kick-Off at Bernabéu
Newly crowned UFC Featherweight Champion, Ilia Topuria, received a hero’s welcome in Spain as “El Matador” was honored with a ceremonial kick-off at Real Madrid FC’s iconic Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Born in Germany to Georgian parents and relocating to Spain as a teenager, Topuria has embraced Spain as his home, making significant strides in the UFC as he represents his adopted country.
On a vibrant Sunday, the stadium, with a seating capacity of 85,000, witnessed Topuria stepping onto the pitch with the UFC belt slung over his shoulder, symbolizing a union of sports cultures before the Real Madrid FC vs. Sevilla match. This recognition at one of football’s most prestigious venues underscores Topuria’s soaring popularity in Spain.
Ilia Topuria walks out with his UFC belt and does the honorary kick-off for the Real Madrid vs. Sevilla game at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Real Madrid is the biggest soccer team in Spain and the most iconic in the world. Their stadium sits 85,000. Massive.
pic.twitter.com/vGrYemr4Mr— Danny Segura (@dannyseguratv) February 25, 2024
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Real Madrid FC, a global football powerhouse with an illustrious history including fourteen UEFA Champions League and thirty-five La Liga titles, celebrated Topuria, a fervent supporter, following his title victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 on February 17. With a flawless record of 15-0, including seven wins in the UFC, “El Matador” aims to defend his title on home soil against none other than the sport’s luminary, Conor McGregor, in a potential match that would set Santiago Bernabéu ablaze with excitement.
👏 ¡@Topuriailia hizo el saque de honor antes del #RealMadridSevillaFC!
👊 @UFCEspanol pic.twitter.com/ggEQKYSKJL— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) February 25, 2024
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Topuria’s ambition reflects his dedication not only to his craft but also to his fans, dreaming of a title defense in the very arena he has admired as a fan. With UFC expressing interest in hosting a gala in Spain, Topuria’s vision of clashing with McGregor at Santiago Bernabéu could soon become a reality, marking a historic moment in MMA history.
“If it was my choice, I would fight Conor McGregor,” said Ilia Topuria. “I want to face McGregor, and it should happen at Santiago Bernabéu. That’s the fight I’m aiming for.”
🏟 El recibimiento del Santiago Bernabéu a @Topuriailia. Este chico nos ha enamorado a todos 💘 pic.twitter.com/iaEGlNaqHT
— MARCA (@marca) February 25, 2024
