UFC champion Ilia Topuria, a loyal Real Madrid fan, surprised fans by calling Lionel Messi his role model and “the best in all of sport.” According to Mundo Deportivo, this admiration grew after meeting Messi at an Inter Miami match. He even invited the football star to attend one of his upcoming fights. The bold statement, along with a jab at Cristiano Ronaldo, quickly sparked reactions across the sports world.
[WHAT’S HAPPENING] Real Madrid Fan But Messi Admirer? Ilia Topuria’s Confession Breaks the Internet
UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria’s connection with Real Madrid has always been a big part of his identity. He’s spoken many times about how the club shaped his competitive mindset. From idolizing Iker Casillas to admiring Cristiano Ronaldo, his loyalty seemed clear. But what surprised fans recently was his unexpected praise for Lionel Messi.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Ilia Topuria’s Real Madrid superfan status took a twist when he named Messi as his ultimate inspiration. “He’s the best in all of sport,” Topuria said, reflecting on his meeting with the Inter Miami star. It wasn’t just about football talent—it was about Messi’s humility and grace, which left a lasting impression on the UFC champ.
He even invited Messi to attend one of his future fights. This admiration left fans stunned, especially considering the intense history between Messi’s former club, Barcelona, and Ilia Topuria-Real Madrid background.
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[REPORT] He Said What About Ronaldo?
If fans were surprised by his Messi admiration, they were shocked by his comments about Cristiano Ronaldo. Once a key figure in the Ilia Topuria-Real Madrid fandom, Ronaldo became the subject of a bold statement: “Forget Cristiano as long as Messi exists.”
This wasn’t a random outburst. The two had a brief clash when Ronaldo suggested that Topuria “talks too much.” The comment clearly struck a nerve. Topuria didn’t hold back and made it clear that, in his eyes, Messi represents the pinnacle of greatness.
Though things seem to have cooled down—Ronaldo even followed Topuria on social media—many still talk about the bold shift in who Ilia Topuria, the Real Madrid loyalist, now calls the best.
[TRENDING] Fans Had Plenty to Say Online
As soon as the story surfaced, social media exploded. Messi fans were thrilled to see someone from the Ilia Topuria Real Madrid camp give such open praise.
Ronaldo supporters, however, weren’t as forgiving. Some accused Topuria of betraying his Real Madrid roots.
One user commented, “If you want to be like Messi you have to be a Barca fan first so…”.
if you want to be like Messi you have to be a Barca fan first so…
— Luis9944 (@LH44FCB) July 6, 2025
Another user commented, “He’s not a real madridista.”
He’s not real madridstas.
— 6 (@_AFChood) April 7, 2024
Pankaj Kapoor’s Take
Fundamentally, this particular case is about more than just club colors. Despite his pride in Real Madrid, Ilia Topuria continued to admire a rival legend. He demonstrated that it’s acceptable to keep respect for himself and team allegiance apart.
Messi’s impact is clearly felt outside of Barcelona. Even though Topuria was devoted to the team, he didn’t hold back from expressing his genuine emotions. It is uncommon for athletes to take such direct stances.
It’s not about taking sides in the end. It all comes down to giving credit where credit is due.
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