Topuria’s Return Not So Soon? “El Matador’s” Coach Responds to Dana White’s Comments

Dana White recently suggested that Ilia Topuria should return to the Octagon soon. However, the Spaniard’s camp is sending a completely different message. “El Matador’s” coach admitted that his fighter hasn’t even started typical MMA training yet, and another fight isn’t a priority right now.

In his most recent bout, Topuria paid a high price for competing at the highest level. The Spaniard suffered several injuries, including a fractured orbital bone, so it will take time for him to return to full fitness.

Despite this, some time ago, UFC President Dana White spoke quite optimistically about the former champion’s future. He hinted that Topuria might return to action relatively soon.

However, the player’s immediate circle does not share this view.

Jesus Gallo: The fight isn’t our priority right now

Topuria’s coach, Jesus Gallo, was asked by the media about White’s comments. As it turns out, the UFC president’s remarks came as quite a surprise to him.

“This is news to me. I don’t know what Dana White is referring to when he makes announcements like this. Right now, we’re focused on starting to train and rescheduling our training camp. At the moment, the fight isn’t our priority,” he said, as quoted by Jorge Ebro.

For now, the most important thing is for “El Matador” to get back to his full training routine. The rehabilitation process itself, however, is going very well.

Gallo acknowledged that Topuria is making rapid progress, but at the same time made it clear that it is still too early to talk about actual preparations for his next fight.

– To be honest, Ilia is making incredible progress, but we still haven’t started any preparations. We haven’t even begun training specifically for MMA.

In practice, this means that any potential matchups involving the Spaniard are premature at this point. The fighter’s camp first wants to make sure his body has fully recovered from his last fight, and only then will they consider his next opponent and a return date.

If Gallo is to be believed, Topuria has no intention of rushing things. First comes his health and a full return to training; only then will he make any athletic decisions.