The UFC featherweight champion (-66 kg), Ilia Topuria, has caused a stir in Spain with a shocking statement against his lifelong idol, Cristiano Ronaldo. Known for his admiration for Real Madrid and CR7, the Spanish fighter of Georgian descent appears to have switched allegiances following criticism from the former Madrid star.
It all began when Cristiano Ronaldo, during an MMA-related event, referred to Topuria as a “big talker.” This remark did not sit well with the undefeated champion (16-0). In an interview with Cadena Cope on Monday, Topuria responded bluntly:
“I didn’t expect someone like you to be unable to tell the difference between self-confidence and arrogance.”
A Shocking Statement in Favor of Messi
But Topuria didn’t stop there. When asked which star he would invite to his next fight in February in Miami, he surprised everyone by saying:
“The one I’ll personally invite, since he lives there, is Messi. As long as Messi exists, Cristiano can go to hell.”
This remark sparked laughter in the room and left Juanma Castaño, the show’s host, visibly stunned.
A One-Time Attack or a True Change of Heart?
Despite this harsh jab at CR7, Ilia Topuria remains a devoted supporter of Real Madrid. Recently, he was honored by the club’s management and players after winning his title against Alexander Volkanovski in February 2024. The fighter even hopes to organize a bout at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu in the near future.
While his comments may seem brutal, they could simply be part of the verbal sparring typical in the world of MMA. It remains to be seen whether this feud between the five-time Ballon d’Or winner and the champion will escalate further.
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