In a bold prediction that has set the MMA world abuzz, UFC Hall of Famer Urijah Faber has singled out a rising star for a historic achievement. On Wednesday, December 24, 2025, Faber declared that Ilia "El Matador" Topuria is the fighter most likely to become the Ultimate Fighting Championship's first-ever triple division champion.
Why Faber Believes Topuria Stands Above the Rest
During an exclusive interview with The Schmo from the United States, Urijah Faber shared his insightful analysis. While acknowledging the ambitions of other elite fighters like Khamzat Chimaev and Alex Pereira, Faber explained why Topuria's path seems clearer at this moment. He pointed directly to the Georgian-Spanish fighter's unique skill set as the decisive factor.
"I could say Ilia Topuria," Faber stated. "That guy, his skill set, he seems to have some crazy power that could translate to the higher weight classes." Faber's endorsement carries significant weight, given his own storied career across multiple weight divisions. He spoke from personal experience about the immense challenges fighters face when moving between weight classes, from adapting to speed changes to managing strength conflicts.
Despite these universal hurdles, Faber asserted that most observers would believe Topuria possesses the unique tools to overcome them more effectively than his peers. He emphasized that while Pereira has discussed a move to heavyweight and Chimaev has called for a shot at the light heavyweight belt, Topuria appears more complete in his abilities right now.
Technique, Will, and Fighting Spirit: The Topuria Trifecta
Faber distilled the essence of Topuria's potential down to three core attributes. "It really comes down to technique, will power, and fighting spirit," he explained. "Ilia has those." This powerful combination, according to the Hall of Famer, is what separates "El Matador" in the race for an unprecedented third UFC belt.
This high praise comes even as Topuria is currently managing personal matters and is not officially booked for his next fight. However, his ambitions are no secret. Earlier in December, Topuria himself shifted focus to the UFC's lightweight kingpin, Islam Makhachev, during a conversation with Eldoberdan.
Topuria confidently stated that he represents a new and formidable challenge for Makhachev, claiming his own power and ground game could fundamentally alter the dynamics of a potential fight. In a statement sure to ignite fan interest, Topuria expressed his desire to submit Makhachev in front of MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is a close friend and mentor to the current champion.
The Road to a Historic Third Title
A blockbuster showdown between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev would likely occur in the lightweight division. A victory there would not only net Topuria a second UFC title but would also swing the door wide open for a pursuit of a historic third championship in a third weight class. While UFC officials have not confirmed any such matchup, the public comments from both Faber and Topuria have poured significant fuel on the speculative fire.
The MMA community, especially fans in India who follow global combat sports closely, now watches with keen interest. The prospect of any fighter achieving the monumental feat of holding three UFC titles simultaneously is captivating. With a respected voice like Urijah Faber placing his bet on Ilia Topuria, the narrative around "El Matador's" future has gained powerful momentum. The coming months will reveal if this prediction is a prescient glimpse of history in the making.
