Fans and UFC legends have been calling for the introduction of new weight classes in order to combat excessive weight loss.
Following his impressive lightweight title win earlier this year, it was rumored that Ilia Topuria would make the first defense of his title on the UFC‘s first numbered event of 2026, kicking off their deal with Paramount.
‘El Matador’ seemed likely to fight popular Brit, Paddy Pimblett, after the two faced off earlier this year potentially setting up a clash.
However, following a recent update from an insider in Topuria’s camp, the lightweight champion is out of the running to headline the promotion’s first event on Paramount.
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Topuria update leads to new weight classes, according to fans
In the update on Topuria, Spanish journalist Alvaro Colmenaro claimed that fans will be surprised at what will happen at lightweight, claiming that Topuria likely won’t fight until spring.
Because of his language, many fans think that the UFC could add more weight classes.
Joe Rogan, the UFC commentator for many years, has continually called on the promotion to introduce new weight classes. In fact, earlier this year he used Topuria to illustrate why new weight categories should be introduced.
“They’re going to introduce a 165lb weight class. Topuria vs Islam (Makhachev) for the belt and a chance for each to be three weight champion,”One fan said.
“Calling it now – Topuria is vacating 155lb title and moving to a new 165lb (weight class). Islam Makhachev is dropping back down to meet him there. Winner becomes the first ever triple division UFC champion. It will probably be the White House card this summer. Book it,”Another fan predicted.
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2025-11-27 15:00:00
