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Ilia Topuria Makes Surprise Appearance at RKENA x PFL Event as Georgian Fans Chant His Name

Ilia Topuria, the former UFC two-division champion, delivered a memorable moment at the RKENA x PFL event in Tbilisi, Georgia, on October 17. The Spaniard made an unexpected appearance at the Tbilisi Sports Palace, drawing thunderous cheers and chants of *‘El Matador’* from thousands of Georgian fans.

His visit underscored his enduring popularity beyond the UFC, especially in his homeland, where he is currently training with boxing star Lasha Guruli and grappling coach Beka Guruli ahead of his anticipated return to the octagon. Topuria also served as a high-profile observer during the event, where RKENA fighters dominated the cross-promotional matchup with a 5-1 record, including a standout first-round submission by Nikoloz Abramishvili over PFL’s Aaron McKenzie.

Meanwhile, Topuria continues to push for a rematch with Justin Gaethje, despite the UFC 155-pound champion favoring Arman Tsarukyan as his next contender. The event marked another chapter in Topuria’s active preparation, as he remains a key figure in both the UFC and his stakeholder role with WOW FC in Madrid.

Up nextMMA· 59m ago

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