Former UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria was having the time of his life with his young son after Spain’s World Cup win.
Just weeks ago, Ilia Topuria suffered the first setback of his otherwise stellar fighting career when he lost the undisputed UFC lightweight title to Justin Gaethje at the White House. Despite being just weeks removed from suffering the jaws of defeat, Topuria is in good spirits after his native Spain pulled off a monumental football win.
The Spain Men’s National Team captured its second FIFA World Cup title by defeating reigning champion Argentina on Sunday in New Jersey. Spain capped off an unblemished run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by holding Lionel Messi and Argentina scoreless in the Final.
Topuria, who has developed a close friendship with Spanish football legend Sergio Ramos in recent years, is one of the biggest stars in Spain. Despite losing the UFC lightweight title, Topuria is still beloved in Spain and could play a key role in bringing the Octagon to the nation for the first time.
As Spain hoisted the trophy at MetLife Stadium, Topuria shared an unforgettable moment celebrating with his son and thousands of fans.
WATCH: Ilia Topuria celebrates in the streets of Spain after FIFA World Cup win
Watch Topuria celebrate with thousands of Spanish football fans below.
As seen in the video above, Topuria was wearing sunglasses at night, potentially to prevent further damage to his eyes after suffering two broken orbital bones against Gaethje. The former UFC lightweight titleholder could potentially return to the Octagon later this year, possibly against longtime rival Paddy Pimblett.
In the meantime, Topuria is enjoying some well-earned time off as he plots his return to the Octagon. After Spain’s big win, the sting from Topuria’s most recent fight might hurt a little less.
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