Mixed martial arts is one of the fastest-growing sports disciplines in the world, and in Spain it has experienced a boom driven by the emergence of Ilia Topuria as a national and global superstar, according to ABC España. The Hispanic-Georgian fighter, nicknamed "El Matador", conquered two world titles — at featherweight and lightweight — in the Ultimate Fighting Championship, the sport's leading organisation.
ABC España reports that Topuria has become a mass phenomenon among young people in Spain, who adopt him as a reference on a level with Carlos Alcaraz, Ferran Torres or Fernando Alonso. The outlet notes that the extreme combat sport has left behind the ostracism of past decades and was close to disappearing 30 years ago, while its article examines why MMA cannot be part of the Olympic programme.