Big promotional launches need big stars to match the hype and expectations. The UFC’s partnership with Paramount represents a significant shift in how the organization reaches fans. January cards typically set the tone for the entire year, establishing momentum and creating storylines. UFC 324 was supposed to be that statement event, kicking off a new era with maximum impact. Everyone assumed Ilia Topuria would headline that landmark card given his recent momentum and star power. <\/p>
The lightweight champion has been on an incredible run, knocking out legends and making it look easy. But UFC reports confirm Ilia Topuria is out of running for UFC<\/a>‘s first Paramount event, shifting his return timeline dramatically and leaving the promotion scrambling to find a suitable replacement for their inaugural broadcast partnership card.<\/p> Alvaro Colmenero, a journalist known for breaking news related to Topuria, revealed that things have changed significantly behind the scenes. Colmenero confirmed Topuria will not fight in January and doubted a February appearance as well. If you ask him, Topuria will likely return sometime in Spring 2026 instead.<\/p> “Things have changed a lot. There have been private situations, and you’re going to be very surprised at what’s going to happen in lightweight. I can confirm that Ilia will not fight in January. February? I doubt it a lot. If you ask me, I think Ilia will fight in spring.”<\/em><\/strong><\/p>Ilia Topuria Out Of The UFC 324 Card<\/h2>