Fans React to Ilia Topuria Confronting NELK Boys for Joking About Wife: “Cut Tension With Knife”

Ilia Topuria is currently the biggest star on the UFC roster due to his consistent dominance and electrifying knockout performances inside the cage. The two-division champion has impressively finished some of the promotion’s biggest names, elevating his legacy and global superstardom quickly. Fans are now desperate to witness Topuria’s next fight, eagerly awaiting any news about his return to the octagon.

As a result, major media outlets are chasing him, but the NELK Boys secured his latest high-profile interview opportunity recently. They hosted a live stream with the Georgian-Spanish fighter and discussed various topics, including his rise and future plans. The group even trained with Topuria, getting firsthand insight into how he intensely prepares for each and every opponent.

During the conversation, Topuria shared the story of meeting his wife in Miami, reflecting on their special and unexpected connection there. Kyle Forgeard then joked, “Who says you can’t meet your wife in Miami?” trying to add humor to the moment. However, the comment didn’t sit well with Topuria, who immediately showed visible discomfort and didn’t appreciate the attempted joke.

You can find your wife in any place in the world. But why are you saying that? Because you go to the party and that’s the only place you see but you don’t know the other part of Miami where people just work (normally). 

Ilia Topuria via The NELK Boys

Forgeard and the other NELK Boys members tried their best to cover up the comment and shift the conversation quickly. Despite their efforts, the awkwardness began to seep into the room, making the atmosphere uncomfortable for everyone involved in the stream. The tension between Topuria and the group became obvious, and clips of the moment quickly went viral across the internet.

UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria had some YouTubers sweating after they disrespected his wife
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‘El Matador’ deeply respects his wife Giorgina, describing her as the cornerstone of his personal life and MMA career. He often states, “She helps me a lot with many things,” showing genuine appreciation for her emotional and logistical support. Giorgina manages their family’s entire business structure in Miami while Topuria focuses on training, highlighting their seamless partnership and shared legacy. 

The lightweight champion credits her presence at key fight events as a pillar of strength that empowers him to perform at his best. She was recently at UFC 317 inside the T-Mobile Arena, cheering as her husband knocked out Charles Oliveira. The moment marked another milestone in their journey, winning him his second UFC belt.

Fight fans react to the awkward moment between Ilia Topuria and the NELK Boys 

A devoted family man, Ilia Topuria regularly shares heartfelt pictures of his wife and son. He has also mentioned training with his young son, who’s deeply interested in MMA and loves being around UFC fighters.

So, when the comment was made, such a reaction from Topuria felt expected, and fans quickly talked about it online afterward.

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As expected, many fans roasted the NELK Boys online for being ignorant and making inappropriate comments during their Topuria interview. Several viewers expressed that influencers like them should better understand fighter backgrounds and show more respect when engaging with professionals publicly.

The NELK Boys share a great relationship with UFC CEO Dana White and often get initial access to UFC fighters. Recently, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub also addressed the situation and criticized influencer involvement in UFC during one of his YouTube videos.

The ex-UFC heavyweight emphasized how the UFC’s growing reliance on social media influencers for promotion may alienate its loyal, pay-per-view-buying, and mature audience base. Schaub believes this approach could ultimately harm the sport’s long-term credibility, and Dana White should hire professional reporters. 

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