Back to the MMA Newsfeed

Ilia Topuria calls for first UFC title defense with Brian Ortega: ‘He makes the most sense, he’s always ready’

Newly-minted undisputed featherweight champion, Ilia Topuria has been linked heavily in recent weeks with title defenses against both former titleholders, Alexander Volkanovski, and Max Holloway, however, has identified Brian Ortega as the ideal opponent to face him next.

Topuria, the current undisputed featherweight champion, most recently headlined UFC 298 back in February in Anaheim, turning in a spectacular second round knockout win over the previously mentioned, Volkanovski in the pair’s heated championship fight.

Joe Rogan claims Ilia Topuria turned down UFC 305 rematch with Alexander Volkanovski in Perth
Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez – USA TODAY Sports

As for Ortega, the two-time title chaser has been sidelined since co-headlining UFC Fight Night Mexico City back in February, rallying with a third round arm-triangle choke to beat former interim champion, Yair Rodríguez in the pair’s rematch.