3 Signs Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria are headlining International Fight Week 

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev likely to defend his title against Ilia Topuria next as both fighters start their respective camps.

3 Signs Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria are headlining International Fight Week 

Ilia Topuria's immediate title crack against Islam Makhachev is possible (Source: X)

The potential clash between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria has stirred intense excitement among fans eagerly awaiting an electrifying lightweight showdown. Since vacating his featherweight belt, Topuria has relentlessly pursued a shot at the lightweight crown in order to prove his credentials. Although negotiation issues initially delayed the fight, recent developments suggest both camps are finally aligning for this blockbuster event.

Previously, Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov had rejected Topuria’s challenge, citing that the Georgian-Spanish star didn’t deserve the title shot yet. This attracted an array of criticism towards Team Khabib and put Dana White in a tough spot. However, recent reports have suggested that both fighters have already started their fight camp.

Initially, reports suggested that Topuria would be making his lightweight debut during the highly anticipated International Fight Week event. Topuria soon confirmed he had officially started training camp, though he remained secretive regarding the identity of his future opponent. Speculation swirled around a potential clash with the former champion Charles Oliveira, but those rumors have now been dismissed.

Recent developments reveal Makhachev has begun training camp, just days after Ilia Topuria, aligning all speculations. Furthermore, a viral YouTube video showed Makhachev’s trainer insisting his fighter can’t fall ill now, due to their ongoing training camp. These developments strongly hint that the long-awaited, fan-hyped superfight between Makhachev and Topuria may finally be happening.

UFC veteran predicts Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev 

Islam Makhachev’s last UFC outing was at UFC 311 where he defended his lightweight title for a record four times. He submitted short-notice opponent Renato Moicano with ease and proved why he’s the pound-for-pound number one. With that win, he became the most successful lightweight in the history of the division, beating his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov. 

Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria fight prediction
Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria fight prediction (via X)

On the other hand, Topuria had an incredible year as he knocked out both Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Since then, there have been various speculations about how the fight between him and Makhachev would go inside the octagon. In a recent interview, former Bellator champion Michael Chandler chimed in and shared his detailed opinion. 

There’s definitely a size difference. Ilia is a lot smaller than Islam. Islam is a big lightweight, a tall lightweight and he’s good in every area. However, ilia definitely got the edge in the striking department. If he’s able to not get taken down…but if Islam gets his hands on him…Islam is one of best grapplers we have seen. I would have to give the edge to Islam just by size.

Michael Chandler via Helen Yee Sports 

After weigh-ins, Makhachev rehydrates efficiently, often entering the cage at around 178 pounds, giving him a serious physical advantage. Topuria revealed on Joe Rogan‘s podcast that he walked around at 180 pounds, matching Makhachev’s fight-night weight surprisingly closely. Despite similar weights, Makhachev’s superior frame and wrestling base allow him to overpower former featherweights like Topuria with ease.

Beating Ilia Topuria wouldn’t add to Islam Makhachev’s legacy?

One of the biggest reasons for Islam Makhachev to avoid Ilia Topuria is the lack of credibility as the lightweight champion. In the past, the fighter has fought former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, beating him on two different occasions. Beating Topuria wouldn’t significantly elevate Makhachev’s legacy, as Topuria hasn’t proved himself in the lightweight division. 

Islam Makhachev's legacy
Islam Makhachev’s legacy (via X)

Topuria’s accolades are impressive, but he lacks the long-term dominance or resume that defines truly legacy-defining victories in UFC history. For Makhachev’s legacy to grow meaningfully, defeating established lightweights or welterweights with proven reigns would carry much greater historical significance. While Topuria’s hype is real, he remains untested against elite grapplers like Makhachev, making a win seem expected, not legendary.

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