In the heart of Miami, where the sun kisses the ocean and the air hums with excitement, an unexpected meeting took place. UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, known for his ferocity inside the Octagon, found himself in the company of none other than the footballing legend, Lionel Messi. The scene unfolded during Inter Miami’s MLS match against Colorado at DRV PNK Stadium, a clash that ended in a 2-2 draw. Messi, ever the maestro, graced the scoresheet with a goal in the 57th minute.
Topuria, a Spanish mixed martial artist hailing from Georgia, couldn’t contain his awe. He uploaded a collage of snapshots on social media, capturing the moment he stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Messi. The caption read, “With one of the greatest legends in sports history… An example for me… And a model for everyone.” The juxtaposition was surreal—a fighter who thrives on combat, paying homage to a footballer who weaves magic with every touch of the ball.
Ilia Topuria’s Real Madrid Roots
But here’s the twist: Ilia Topuria is no ordinary sports enthusiast. He bleeds white, not just for any team, but for Real Madrid. The Santiago Bernabeu, with its storied history and echoing cheers, is his cathedral. Yet, when Messi graced the Miami pitch, Topuria’s fandom transcended club loyalties. He recognized greatness, irrespective of jersey colors. In his own words, “I’m a Real Madrid fan, but Leo Messi is the best in all sports—he’s my role model.”
‼️ UFC Champion Ilia Topuria is a hardcore Real Madrid fan but still travelled all the way to Miami to watch Messi ball yesterday 🔥 🐐 pic.twitter.com/gd1SrFkLIg
— MugFPL (@PandaNoComply) April 7, 2024
The Octagon and the football field—two arenas divergent in purpose yet united by passion. Ilia Topuria, undefeated and hailed as one of the most popular MMA fighters globally, has already etched his name in the annals of combat sports. His knockout victory over Aussie legend Alexander Volkanovski secured him the 145 lbs title at UFC 298. Spain and Georgia celebrated his triumph, and he was even granted Spanish citizenship. But now, Miami witnessed a different side of Topuria—one that reveled in the artistry of Messi’s footwork.
As Messi’s season tally reached six goals in as many appearances, Ilia Topuria contemplated his own journey. He dreams of defending his UFC belt at the Santiago Bernabeu, where the echoes of past glories resonate.
Read More- Throwback to Brock Lesnar and Jon Jones UFC 200 Doping Drama
SHARE
