Ilia Topuria’s presence at UFC 324 gets more mysterious, as now the event is all creating buzz about Alex Pereira’s possible face-off against Carlos Ulberg for the headliner battle. With UFC 324 moving to a Paramount+ broadcast, it was earlier speculated that Ilia Topuria may headline the event. But as now Alex vs. Carlos is likely to headline the much-awaited event, everyone wants to know if Ilia is even going to be at the event at all or not.
It looks as though Ilia Topuria may likely be fighting in the early part of next year. The repositioning of the champions at UFC 324 may be happening across multiple cards this time. It is taking place under a Paramount+ broadcast targeting maximum visibility. Also, Pereira is popular for his double champ narrative, and that’s enough to give him the chance to headline UFC 324. Certainly, that may have put Ilia Topuria for the co-main event or for the main event of the next card after the Paramount show.
Is Ilia Topuria Now a Co-Main Event or Saved for a Later Headliner?
As of now, Pereira is all set to headline UFC 324, but that still leaves a spot for Ilia Topuria in the event. Here’s how that may happen.
1. Co-main event at the UFC 324
Ilia Topuria may come in the supporting role behind a heavyweight or lightweight headliner appearing for the co-main event.
2. Main event of the next big UFC card
There’s a chance that Ilia Topuria may headline in the first PPV, which is after the Paramount show. This can keep him relevant, and fans can have him fight some good contenders.
3. Pairing with Arman Tsarukyan for a later date
After Arman Tsarukyan won over Dan Hooker, the former called out Ilia Topuria immediately for a battle. Meanwhile, Dana White confirmed that match, but it’s likely this match may not be lined up for UFC 324 but for some other important date.
4. Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje as future options
Paddy and Justin both stand as options to fight Ilia Topuria, but it looks like neither could fight Topuria in the coming January.
Where Does UFC 324 Stand Now?
Despite a missing official headliner for UFC 324, Alex Pereira vs. Carlos Ulberg is almost final for the Paramount debut of the event. A heavyweight or lightweight is likely to take place. At the same time, we have Islam Makhachev already gearing up for the White House card.
Certainly, with such a setup of battles in January, Ilia Topuria’s best chance appears as
1. At the co-main event of UFC 324
2. At the main event immediately after the Paramount card
Hopefully, even if UFC 324 may not have Ilia Topuria, he’s still key to the UFC, and his battle is never going to be less than good to watch.