Sun May 11 01:50:00 UTC 2025: ## UFC Star Ilia Topuria Ditches “La Leyenda,” Returns to “El Matador” Nickname

**LAS VEGAS** – Just weeks after adopting the moniker “La Leyenda” (The Legend), UFC star Ilia Topuria has announced a return to his former nickname, “El Matador.” The former featherweight champion, who recently vacated his belt and moved up to lightweight, revealed his decision on Thursday’s episode of El Hormiguero.

Topuria explained that he realized the value of his original nickname only after adopting the new one. The change was met with mixed fan reaction and even criticism from fellow fighter Paddy Pimblett.

The 28-year-old Spaniard also confirmed his highly anticipated return to the Octagon at UFC 317 on June 28th. His opponent will be either lightweight champion Islam Makhachev or former champion Charles Oliveira, depending on the outcome of the UFC 315 welterweight title fight between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena this Saturday. A Muhammad victory keeps Makhachev at 155lbs to face Topuria; a Della Maddalena win would see Makhachev move up to welterweight, paving the way for a Topuria-Oliveira title bout.

UFC President Dana White confirmed the accuracy of Topuria’s statements, highlighting the fluidity of the situation. The upcoming welterweight title fight will thus dictate the next chapter in Topuria’s illustrious career, as “El Matador” prepares for his highly anticipated title shot.

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