Las Vegas Set to Host Topuria's Next Fight

Ilia Topuria is one of the most impressive UFC fighters to have dominated the octagon in recent years, and fans will be pleased to learn that he might soon be making a return to the Las Vegas cage. Rumours have begun to circulate that Topuria is set to hold his first title defence in late January; a possibility that has piqued the interest of none other than Dana White himself. What can we expect from Ilia Topuria, and are there any opponents on the fight card? Let's take a look.

A Fighter with Few Visible Flaws

Ilia Topuria has already proven his mettle within the octagon, and few fighters would argue that he is one of the most well-rounded opponents on the market. Known for his extreme athleticism, and truly frightening knockout power, those who chose to stand toe-to-toe in the past quickly realised the error of their ways. However, Topuria is far from a brawler. He is quite a technical fighter who also boasts an impressive ground-and-pound game.

The only possible concern that some fans have expressed involves a slight vulnerability to head kicks; primarily as a result of a somewhat upright stance. However, Topuria is formidable in the clinch, and his right hand is a particular worry for even the most seasoned fighters.

Why Las Vegas?

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. While this statement is more than slightly cliché, it is also quite true. Vegas has headlined some of the top UFC fights in history, and it is certain to attract an upscale audience. In other words, marketing is always in the back of Dana White's mind, and an analogy is in order.

Furthermore, the city itself is one of the most important hubs for combat sports and entertainment, but it can no longer rely solely on people flying in just to gamble at the casinos. With the growth of online platforms such as Jackpot City Casino, fans can stay at home and play slots whenever they want, so Las Vegas needs new hooks to persuade visitors to come in person. Securing one of the most talked-about champions in the world right now is a powerful way to do that, and local promoters know they have even more leverage if there is a title on the line. Money talks, and if Las Vegas puts a serious offer in front of Dana White, it seems improbable that he is going to reject it.

However, history also plays an important role. Las Vegas hosted Ilia Topuria when he knocked out Damon Jackson, and when he submitted Bryce Mitchell during UFC 282. Similar to Rocky fighting in his hometown of Philadelphia, Las Vegas seems to be the perfect location for Topuria to continue dominating the octagon

Possible Opponents

Who might be facing off with Topuria? While a date of 24 January is all but officially confirmed, the same cannot be said for possible opponents. Rumours have nonetheless highlighted some possibilities:

• Paddy Pimblett
• Arman Tsarukyan
• Justin Gaethje

A face-off between Topuria and Pimblett would be particularly interesting, and we will have to see what the organisers eventually decide.

Either way, fans are already gearing up for what the new year has in store. Will Topuria once again rise to the occasion and continue his dominating role? Only time will tell. All eyes will be focused on additional announcements in the coming weeks.