More than 200 students in Tbilisi, Georgia, have lovely messages for former UFC two-division titleholder Ilia Topuria.
Earlier this month at the White House, Topuria lost his lightweight title to Justin Gaethje. “The Highlight” dismantled the Georgian-Spaniard for 20 minutes, after which Topuria’s corner decided to stop the fight as “El Matador” had taken immense facial damage during the title unification bout and was barely able to see.
Right after the TKO loss, Topuria was sent to the hospital. Medical evaluation revealed that the 29-year-old has a busted-up nose and two broken orbital bones.
After losing his title and suffering the first MMA defeat of his career, Ilia Topuria, via an Instagram post, admitted that Justin Gaethje was the better man on June 14. However, he vowed to come back stronger and warned “The Highlight” that their story is far from over.
Check out Ilia Topuria’s comments below:
Students in Georgia show support for Ilia Topuria after title loss
More than 200 students in Tbilisi, Georgia, gathered with their flashlights raised in support of Ilia Topuria after the title loss. The powerful scene resembled a Coldplay concert. Hundreds of lights pierced the night, trying to light the way through the disappointment of defeat and remind “El Matador” how special he is to every Georgian.
Several students came forward with heartfelt messages for Topuria. Some told the former champion how much they love and appreciate him, while others added that “El Matador” has motivated them to get up and grind every day to become the best versions of themselves. One of the kids said:
“Ilia, you are my role model because you’ve taught me that it’s not about falling but about getting back up and fighting until the very end.”
Another added:
“Ilia, a single night cannot erase what you’ve built over the years.”
A student chimed in:
“Ilia, never forget how many hearts beat for you in Georgia.”
With flashlights illuminating the night, the students formed “Ilia” and the Georgian flag with lights, creating a heartfelt tribute that was beautifully captured by a drone to conclude this lovely clip.
Check out the clip and more messages below:
