For years, both fans and some notable figures in the UFC have been pushing for new weight classes to address the ongoing issue of extreme weight cutting.
After his impressive win to claim the lightweight title earlier this year, there were rumours that Ilia Topuria would make his first defence at the start of 2026, coinciding with the UFC’s debut event under their new deal with Paramount.
‘El Matador’ was expected to face Paddy Pimblett, especially after they came face-to-face earlier in the year, but it appears that fight will not happen as soon as many had hoped.
According to journalist Alvaro Colmenaro, the Spaniard is unlikely to headline the promotion’s first Paramount event.
Speculation grows around new UFC divisions after Ilia Topuria news
Colmenaro also mentioned that fans should expect something unexpected regarding the lightweight division, suggesting Topuria would not fight again until at least spring.
The way he phrased it got people talking about the possibility of additional weight classes being introduced to the UFC – a move many have wanted for a while.
Joe Rogan has long advocated for more divisions during his time as a commentator. Earlier this year, he even cited Topuria as a prime example of why change is needed.
Echoing the rumours based on Colmenaro’s update, one fan said: “They’re going to introduce a 165lb weight class. Topuria vs Islam (Makhachev) for the belt and a chance for each to be three weight champion.”
Another one wrote: “Calling it now – Topuria is vacating 155lb title and moving to a new 165lb (weight class). Islam Makhachev is dropping back down to meet him there. Winner becomes the first ever triple division UFC champion. It will probably be the White House card this summer. Book it.”
“New weight classes coming. 165lbs and 175lbs,” a third fan predicted.
Dana White’s history of opposing new UFC weight classes
Dana White has consistently pushed back against the idea of introducing new men’s weight classes in the UFC.
But in a slight shift last year, he floated the idea of adding a 105lb women’s division after being impressed by Julieta Martinez during her stint on Dana White’s Contender Series.
“Finally getting a 165lb division?” one fan asked.
At this point, there is still no clear direction from the UFC regarding Topuria, though he remains vocal about wanting a welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev.
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