World champions unite! Lionel Messi leaves UFC title holder Ilia Topuria starstruck as El Matador attends Argentine’s return to MLS action with Inter Miami

Meeting Lionel Messi is a special occasion for anyone, with even UFC champion Ilia Topuria left starstruck during a visit to Inter Miami.

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WHAT HAPPENED?
The German fighter, who is of Georgian origin and recently received Spanish citizenship, is a big football fan. It was only a few weeks ago that he was mingling with Real Madrid aces Jude Bellingham and David Alaba when taking in a trip to Santiago Bernabeu.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
He has now left Europe for the United States, with the draw of Messi taking Topuria to Florida. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was back in action for Inter Miami against the Colorado Rapids after missing four games with a hamstring injury.
WHAT TOPURIA SAID ABOUT MESSI
Topuria got to rub shoulders with Messi before a ball was kicked, before taking ownership of an iconic No.10 jersey. He said of that experience on Instagram: “With one of the greatest legends in sports history.... An example for me.... And a model for everyone.”

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WHAT NEXT?
Messi also met Puerto Rican music star Daddy Yankee at Chase Stadium, with those that had come for a glimpse of the all-time great in action treated to a goal as the Argentine superstar stepped off the bench to net in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

WHAT HAPPENED?