Undefeated UFC lightweight contender Ilia Topuria has opened up about his school years in an interview with Red Corner MMA, admitting he often faced bullying as a child.
Ilia Topuria's rise from bullied child to UFC showdown near the White House
"Conflicts with classmates were constant—I had to stand up for myself," he recalled. "I never went looking for trouble on the streets, but sometimes, that's just how things played out."
The fighter, nicknamed "El Matador," added: "It made me afraid. You feel humiliated, start doubting yourself. You don't find the courage until you finally say everything that's been building up inside."
Topuria's next bout is set for June 14 at the event near the White House, where he will face Justin Gaethje.
