Overview
- UFC CEO Dana White told The Jim Rome Show the promotion is working on Topuria’s return and expects him back in early 2027.
- Topuria suffered fractures to both orbital bones, a broken septum and a broken foot in his June loss to Justin Gaethje and has since reported final medical clearance and resumed training.
- Topuria told ABC Diario he is targeting a comeback “from April onwards” and publicly called out longtime rival Paddy Pimblett as his preferred opponent.
- Calls for an immediate rematch with Gaethje persist but the new champion has repeatedly rejected running it back, leaving Gaethje’s near‑term plans and the rematch route uncertain.
- Topuria’s return timing and opponent choice could directly reshape the crowded lightweight title race and matters to Topuria personally because he says he may consider retiring after his next fight.