In a throwback interview with Ariel Helwani, UFC’s Ilia Topuria delivered a quip that instantly set social media ablaze. When discussing Francis Ngannou‘s comment about being “more Spanish” than him during their encounter in Marbella, Topuria responded with an eyebrow-raising retort.
“When I see myself in the mirror below my waist,” Topuria said with a straight face, “I also think sometimes I’m more African than Francis Ngannou.”
The unexpected comment caught Helwani off-guard, who maintained his professional composure despite the suggestive nature of the joke. The clip quickly circulated across MMA communities, generating a mix of reactions ranging from amusement to criticism.
Many fans pointed out that Topuria appears to be channeling the provocative style of Conor McGregor, with some suggesting he borrowed the joke directly from the Irish boxer’s playbook.
“He’s just a fanboy copying McGregor’s jokes,”
became a common sentiment among viewers.
Critics called the comment
“cringe”
and questioned whether such remarks fit Topuria‘s persona, suggesting he might be
“trying too hard”
to cultivate a certain image.
“That personality doesn’t suit him,”
one observer noted, while others felt the attempt at humor fell flat.
Supporters, however, appreciated Topuria‘s wordplay, viewing it as a clever response that simultaneously mocked nonsensical comparative statements while complimenting himself.
“Not bad El Matador, very smart,”
one fan commented.
The interview comes as Topuria prepares for his upcoming title shot rumored to be scheduled for International Fight Week on June 28th. His rising profile has led some to suggest he could become
“the next face of the UFC,”
though others wonder how he would handle potential setbacks.
What’s clear is that Topuria continues to generate conversation beyond his boxing skills. His willingness to make bold statements keeps him in the spotlight, though the reception remains mixed. Whether his approach helps or hinders his star power remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – he has the MMA world talking about more than just his performances in the octagon.
