UFC Star Ilia Topuria Granted Spanish Citizenship after Featherweight Championship Win

In a historic turn of events for both the UFC and Spain, Ilia Topuria, at 27 years old, made headlines by not only becoming the first Spanish champion in UFC history but also by meeting with the Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who promised him a national citizenship.

The victory that solidified Topuria's status as the featherweight champion came at UFC 298, where he secured a remarkable knockout against Alexander Volkanovski. His decisive blow left Volkanovski reeling on the canvas, marking a significant moment at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

Individuals from all walks of life, including his fellow compatriots, have showered Topuria with praise on social media following his championship win. The meeting with the Prime Minister and the subsequent promise of Spanish citizenship only added to the accolades he's received.

Born in Germany to Georgian parents and relocating to Spain during his teenage years, Topuria's journey has been defined by adaptability and determination. Choosing to represent Spain within the UFC further cements his legacy as the first Spanish champion in the organization's history.
Post-victory celebrations have seen Topuria proudly showcasing his featherweight title. A standout moment occurred at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Topuria was given a hero's welcome before Real Madrid's match against Sevilla. This led to a memorable scene where players from both teams gathered to pose with the UFC star and his well-deserved championship belt.

Topuria's story is a testament to his unwavering dedication and perseverance, traits that Prime Minister Sanchez highlighted in his social media post commending the UFC star. With the promise of Spanish citizenship on the horizon, Topuria's bond with Spain and his achievements in the octagon continue to captivate audiences worldwide.