“Complete Villain Arc” – Ilia Topuria Brutally Insulting Khabib Nurmagomedov Leaves Fans in Shock

Ilia Topuria talks about UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov ahead of a potential clash with Islam Makhachev.

“Complete Villain Arc” – Ilia Topuria Brutally Insulting Khabib Nurmagomedov Leaves Fans in Shock

Ilia Topuria wants to submit to Islam Makhachev in front of Khabib Nurmagomedov (via X)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Ilia Topuria is one of the biggest names on the UFC roster, delivering multiple viral moments in the last few years. The reigning lightweight champion has enjoyed massive momentum, with supreme self-belief driving his rise and public persona worldwide today. That confidence recently fueled confrontational remarks aimed at UFC Hall of Famer, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Ilia Topuria is widely known for high-profile beef, with his rivalry against Islam Makhachev standing out prominently. Both fighters have often talked about fighting each other and have repeatedly exchanged online insults across interviews and social media. Recently, ‘El Matador’ discussed the grudge fight and even took the opportunity to mock Makhachev’s mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

I consider my strong point to be on the ground, but lately I’ve accepted that it is not what the public wants to see, although with Islam perhaps it is something that the public wants to see. To dominate him standing up, to give him three or four punches in the spot where I have to hit him, and then to submit him in front of Khabib and if he wants to pass, I’ll gladly step on his head too.

Ilia Topuria via  Eldo Berdan MMA

Islam Makhachev last fought Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, dominating the Australian across five rounds with complete control. The Dagestani imposed his wrestling throughout the bout but faced criticism, including from Ilia Topuria, who labeled the performance boring.

Topuria, however, views himself as an entertainer, preferring striking exchanges and aggressive action rather than relying heavily on grappling dominance. This wrestling-heavy strategy was popularized by Khabib Nurmagomedov, who believes Dagestani fighters hold clear superiority once fights hit the ground.

Ilia Topuria, representing Georgia, has strongly refuted those claims and appears eager to prove that belief wrong. Previously, the champion stated that Dagestani fighters often struggle and give up when pushed outside their comfort zones. 

Earlier this year, Topuria’s countryman and former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili dominated Umar Nurmagomedov in front of ‘The Eagle’. Ahead of their potential super fight, Topuria might want to replicate that same feat by defeating Makhachev with Nurmagomedov sitting on the Octagon side.

Previously, the Dagestani legend had mentioned Topuria as a good guy who likes trash-talking to market himself. However, with the champion’s recent remarks, these dynamics might change going into a potential future clash.

Fans react to Ilia Topuria’s recent comments on Khabib Nurmagomedov 

Ilia Topuria has reportedly faced a recent personal issue involving his wife, sparking online controversy and intense scrutiny across platforms. The situation, while kept largely private, has dominated headlines, creating distractions that complicate overall fight readiness planning.

Ilia Topuria, after knocking out Charles Oliveira
Ilia Topuria, after knocking out Charles Oliveira (via X)

According to sources, these circumstances forced Topuria to pause negotiations, effectively ruling him out from competing early in the 2026 calendar year. As a result, the UFC adjusted its lightweight plans, shifting timelines and exploring interim solutions to maintain divisional momentum. UFC 324 is now expected to host an Interim lightweight championship bout between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett. 

Despite uncertainty, Topuria remains committed, signaling a focused comeback once personal challenges stabilize and schedules align again soon. Nevertheless, here are some reactions to his recent comments against UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.

As expected, many fans were surprised by Ilia Topuria’s comments on Khabib Nurmagomedov. Many backed the superstar, urging him to end the dominance of Islam Makhachev and Dagestani wrestling decisively once and forever.

Others mocked the fighter for ongoing personal issues, questioning credibility, timing, and focus amid heated online debates lately. Critics also noted he avoided Arman Tsarukyan, a dangerous wrestler, raising doubts about his willingness to confront elite grapplers in UFC.

Also Read: