Ilia Topuria, reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, recently had a memorable encounter with soccer superstar Lionel Messi, showcasing the crossover appeal of the sport of mixed martial arts.
Topuria's rise to prominence in the UFC has been nothing short of remarkable, with his latest victory over Alexander Volkanovski solidifying his status as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the promotion.
At UFC 298, Topuria delivered a stunning performance, securing a decisive victory over Volkanovski and bringing an end to the former champion's four-year reign at featherweight. The win marked Volkanovski's first stoppage loss in the division, further highlighting Topuria's exceptional talent and skill inside the octagon.
With an undefeated record of 15-0, including an impressive 13 knockouts, Topuria's achievements have propelled him into the spotlight, earning him recognition beyond the realm of MMA. His meeting with Lionel Messi, who was preparing for a soccer match with Inter Miami against Colorado, exemplifies the crossover appeal of both sports.
During their encounter, Messi graciously presented Topuria with his shirt and posed for a photograph, showcasing the mutual respect between the two athletes.
Despite Topuria's allegiance to Real Madrid, Messi's former rivals during his tenure at Barcelona, the meeting between the two sportsmen was a testament to the camaraderie shared among elite athletes.
ASÍ FUE EL ENCUENTRO ENTRE ILIA TOPURIA, LEO MESSI, LUIS SUÁREZ, SERGIO BUSQUETS Y JORDI ALBA🥊⚽🐐pic.twitter.com/k8tJ4aHSuU
— Balón Balón (@BalonBalon_) April 7, 2024
In addition to his encounter with Messi, Topuria's support for Real Madrid was evident during his attendance at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium for a game against Sevilla in February. The champion's presence at the iconic stadium further solidified his connection to the world of soccer, sparking speculation about the possibility of hosting a rematch with Volkanovski at the Bernabeu in Spain.
Furthermore, Topuria's willingness to entertain the idea of a potential bout with Conor McGregor, despite the Irishman's hiatus from the featherweight division, speaks to the champion's ambition and confidence in his abilities. As his popularity continues to soar, Topuria has emerged as a beloved figure among UFC fans, further cementing his status as a formidable force in the sport.