UFC champion accused of domestic violence, announces retirement

Ilia Topuria has reiterated that he will not be defending his UFC lightweight title anytime soon. The champion had already announced his retirement from the octagons in November of this year, but without specifying the reason. However, this Monday (15/12) he reported as motive accusations of domestic violence and attempted extortion and slander from his ex-wife, Giorgina Badell.

“All of this is perfectly documented – audios, messages, testimonies and videos – and is already made available to the courts so that legal proceedings can be initiated not only for attempted extortion, but also for falsification of evidence, theft of money and personal items, in addition to all the threats received,” said the champion.

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Topuria and Giorgina split in October this year. The former couple have two children, six-year-old Hugo and one-year-old Giorginita. According to a press release from the fighter, the case is already in the hands of the courts. He denies all accusations made by his ex-wife.

The lightweight champion also said he would not make any further statements on the matter, in order to preserve his children’s privacy.

Discover Ilia Topuria’s note in its entirety:

In recent weeks, you know that I had to temporarily give up defending my title, which, as you can imagine, was not an easy decision. But when life presents you with situations that threaten your peace, your family and your name, there comes a time when you must take a step forward.

Over the past few months, I have been subjected to intolerable situations and pressure, with threats to spread unfounded accusations of mistreatment that would only disappear in exchange for money. But the truth has only one path: facts.

All this is perfectly documented – audios, messages, testimonies and videos – and is already made available to the courts so that legal proceedings can be initiated not only for attempted extortion, but also for falsification of evidence, theft of money and personal items, in addition to all the threats received.

I tried to stay silent to protect my children, who are the pillars of my life, but I understood that remaining silent is no longer protection; This allows the lie to continue to grow.

Many people have experienced similar situations and Justice, sooner or later, put everything in its place. Today, it is up to me to step forward and set an example: no one should give in to pressure, manipulation or fear. Anyone who knows me knows that I have never resorted to violence against anyone and that my values have always been respect, discipline and honesty.

I’m taking this step for my family, for myself, and for everyone who needs to see that the truth can be defended by facts. I have complete trust in Justice and I place everything I have experienced in its hands.

As you can understand, out of respect for my children and the legal process, I will make no further statement. I only ask that there be no speculation and that my family’s privacy be respected at such a delicate moment, which you have always done and for which I am deeply grateful.

My truth does not need to shout; it just needs to be heard