Ilia Topuria has adopted a new nickname, which has already sparked a wide range of responses from fans.
Reactions have been mixed, with some fans expressing skepticism.
Previously known as “El Matador,” Topuria has officially announced his new moniker: “La Leyenda,” translating from Spanish to “The Legend” in English.
At 28 years old, Topuria boasts an unblemished professional record of 16 wins and no losses, including a perfect 8-0 run in the UFC. He currently holds the UFC featherweight title, earned through impressive knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Notably, Topuria is the only fighter to have defeated Volkanovski at featherweight and the sole competitor to finish Holloway with strikes.
With plans to move up to the 155-pound lightweight division in pursuit of a second championship belt, Topuria is seizing the opportunity to rebrand himself. This change comes ahead of a potential matchup with Islam Makhachev. However, the nickname change has been met with some criticism, as exemplified by one comment stating, “He is good, but he is so lame.”
Discover more fan reactions to the newly christened La Leyenda below.