UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria says he expects to return this summer but whether that includes the rumored White House mega-card remains unclear. Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) hasn’t competed since knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to claim the vacant lightweight title. Personal matters sidelined him afterward, ultimately leading the UFC to create an interim belt.
That interim title now belongs to Justin Gaethje, who defeated Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324.
White House Main Event?
The UFC has yet to officially announce fights for the White House event, though CEO Dana White has stated matchmaking is complete.