Aleksandre Topuria Set for UFC Qatar Return vs. Luna

Aleksandre Topuria is closing in on a bantamweight bout against Santiago Luna at UFC Qatar on Nov. 21 in Doha, according to reports out of Spain.

The 30-year-old, who is the brother of former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, hasn't fought since November of last year, when he beat Bekzat Almakhan by unanimous decision for his second win inside the Octagon. That layoff lines up with a stretch where Aleksandre Topuria has been focused mostly on coaching his brother rather than competing himself.

The timing matters. Ilia Topuria dropped the lightweight title to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 and isn't expected back in the cage until next year, so this Qatar booking gives the Topuria name a presence on UFC cards while the champion recovers and plots his next move.

Who Is Santiago Luna, Aleksandre Topuria's Reported Opponent?

Santiago Luna brings an 8-1 record and a 2-1 UFC mark into the rumored matchup, but he's coming off a rough outing. Luna was submitted by Bryce Mitchell this past June, the first loss of his professional career, and now looks to get back on track against a Topuria trying to build momentum of his own.

For Aleksandre Topuria, a win here would be his third in the UFC and a chance to show he can keep pace outside his brother's shadow. He hasn't been busy, and stepping in against a game, well-rounded opponent coming off a finish loss is no gimme.

The card is still taking shape. A middleweight fight between Ikram Aliskerov and former title challenger Jared Cannonier is also being talked about for the same Doha event.

Betting Angle

Books haven't opened a line yet since the bout isn't officially announced, but this is the kind of matchup where recent form should shape early number. Luna takes a real step down in confidence after getting finished by Mitchell, and bettors will want to watch how sportsbooks price a fighter who was unbeaten in the UFC before that loss against a Topuria who has looked sharp but has fought only twice for the promotion. Expect the line to move once fight week nears and each camp's preparation becomes clearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Aleksandre Topuria fighting next?

Aleksandre Topuria is reportedly set to face Santiago Luna at UFC Qatar on Nov. 21 in Doha.

Is Aleksandre Topuria related to Ilia Topuria?

Yes, Aleksandre Topuria is the brother of former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

What is Santiago Luna's UFC record?

Santiago Luna is 8-1 overall and 2-1 in the UFC, with his only professional loss coming via submission to Bryce Mitchell in June.