Ilia Topuria, the first UFC champion from Georgia, exemplifies the power of determination and hard work. Looking back on his journey, he remembers the various jobs he held to finance his dream of becoming a fighter. “I worked as a cashier, as a security guard on Sundays, and set up sunbeds at the beach with my brother,” he explains. “I did everything to raise money to support myself and compete.”
Topuria’s unwavering dedication is a testament of his belief that anyone with the right mindset can pursue their dreams.
“All this so that I could raise money, sponsor myself and have the opportunity to go to competitions. That’s why I say that anyone who wants can do it.
12 years ago, when I told people that my dream was to become the UFC world champion, many of them couldn’t laugh, but smiled,” said Ilia Topuria.
Ilia Topuria became the first Georgian UFC champion and also the first Georgian fighter who defended the championship belt. Topuria first defeated Alexander Volkanovski to take the belt, and then defended the latter against Max Holloway.