Ilia Topuria trains with Spanish soccer superstar Sergio Ramos ahead of high-profile UFC title clash against Max Holloway
Ilia Topuria and Sergio Ramos have linked up once again. This time, the Spanish pair trained together ahead of 'El Matador's' first-ever featherweight title defense at UFC 308, where he will face former 145-pound champion and one of the division's greatest-ever fighters, Max Holloway.
Pictures of Topuria's training session with Ramos, one of the greatest central defenders in soccer history, were shared on the Spanish soccer legend's Instagram page. Both men are among the many icons of Spanish sports, with Topuria being the country's first-ever UFC champion.
The friendship between him and Ramos has received an increasing amount of attention ever since Topuria captured UFC featherweight gold. Ramos has even been cage-side in attendance for 'El Matador's' bouts, including his striking masterclass against Josh Emmett in June 2023.
Topuria was also given an official championship presentation at the Santiago Bernabeu, which is the home stadium of Real Madrid, Ramos' former club and one of the greatest soccer clubs of all time. Now, Topuria is gearing up for yet another stunning performance.
Currently undefeated, with a high-finishing rate and marketability in Spain, Topuria has all the makings of a superstar. However, to solidify his spot at the top of the featherweight division, he must overcome Holloway, who is on a hot streak of his own, having authored three consecutive wins, including two knockouts.
Moreover, Holloway is the current 'BMF' champion, whose belt Topuria has eyed, despite being the reigning featherweight champion. Regardless, the two men will settle their differences on Oct. 26.
Ilia Topuria and Sergio Ramos have trained together before
This isn't the first time Ilia Topuria and Sergio Ramos have trained together. Weeks ago, the pair had a training session, during which Ramos gifted him a signed national team jersey and soccer cleats. Topuria expressed immense gratitude before both men embraced.
Check out Ilia Topuria and Sergio Ramos' post-workout embrace:
Ramos achieved historic success with the Spanish national team during his peak, winning the UEFA European Championship in 2008, the FIFA World Cup in 2010, and the UEFA European Championship for a second time in 2012.