Ilia Topuria Changes Nickname, Vacates Featherweight Title

Ilia Topuria, a rising star in the UFC with a perfect 16-0 record, has changed his nickname from 'El Matador' to 'La Leyenda', meaning 'The Legend', as he transitions from the featherweight to the lightweight division. This change accompanies his recent decision to vacate the featherweight title after notable knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. His announcement, made during a ceremony in Toledo, Spain where a street was named in his honor, has sparked mixed reactions from fans. Some question if he has earned the 'legend' status, while others criticize the self-bestowed nickname. Despite skepticism, Topuria aims to cement his legacy by pursuing a lightweight title, with potential future fights against champion Islam Makhachev still unconfirmed. Meanwhile, Volkanovski will face Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314.