Ilia Topuria reminds world about Dana White’s promise as Islam Makhachev refuses title opportunity

UFC superstar Ilia Topuria was promised the lightweight title against Islam Makhachev by the promotion before vacating his belt. 

Ilia Topuria reminds world about Dana White’s promise as Islam Makhachev refuses title opportunity

Ilia Topuria says Islam Makhachev's title shot was already promised to him (via Imago)

Ilia Topuria had an incredible 2024, defeating Alexander Volkanovski to claim the featherweight title before defending it against Max Holloway. He knocked out both legendary fighters and now aims to do the same to Islam Makhachev, but securing the fight has been difficult. Despite challenges in negotiations, Topuria remains confident in his abilities and continues pushing for the title fight. 

Last month, UFC CEO Dana White announced that Topuria would vacate the featherweight title due to weight-cutting issues. The Georgian-Spanish superstar has since decided to move up and remains eager to win the 155-pound belt. Makhachev rejected the fight once; however, Topuria was confident about his deal with UFC. 

The UFC promised me I’d fight for the belt. That’s why I vacated it. And they’ve always kept their promise

Ilia Topuria via Irati Prat
YouTube video

Topuria’s lightweight move was well received by fight fans and veterans, making his transition into the division exciting. However, Makhachev and critics believed Topuria should fight a top-five contender first to prove himself worthy of a lightweight title shot. After rejecting, the Dagestani received an array of criticism due to his previous bold statements regarding fighting anybody at any time. 

Michael Chandler, recognizing Topuria’s potential, has suggested the UFC might fast-track the fighter due to the appeal of big fights. In the top five, Topuria has already rejected the offer to fight the #1 lightweight contender, Arman Tsarukyan. Other than that, former champion Charles Oliveira is a suitable opponent, and Topuria trained for him, too. 

However, the Brazilian doesn’t want the former featherweight and is more focused on his title rematch with Makhachev. This has created several doubts among fight fans about the future of the lightweight division. The champion has promised to return in June, and it will be interesting to see whether Topuria gets the shot.

UFC veteran shares the main reason for Ilia Topuria’s departure from the featherweight division 

Ilia Topuria started his UFC journey with an undefeated record, showcasing brutal grappling and knockout power. In the UFC featherweight division, he dominated opponents like Ryan Hall, Bryce Mitchell, and Josh Emmett with elite striking and wrestling. His relentless pressure, confidence, and finishing ability made him an unstoppable force, culminating in his championship victory over Alexander Volkanovski.

Ilia Topuria featherweight run
Ilia Topuria featherweight run (via Instagram)

However, he never liked the division due to the lack of competition and his trouble with weight cutting. As a result, the undefeated fighter was highly motivated for his lightweight move and becoming a champion. In a recent video, UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen shared his views on Topuria’s reasons for leaving 145 lbs. 

He’s done with 145. He hates 145. He wants nothing to do with 145. You can’t hear a happy Ilia interview. He’s so angry……He does not like not being world champion. He doesn’t like that he doesn’t have a guaranteed world title shot coming up.

Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel 

While these are just claims made by Sonnen, it is safe to say Topuria enjoyed his rivalries in the division. Despite all that trash talk, he maintained a respectful relationship with the likes of Volkanovski and Max Holloway. His featherweight run was incredible and fans are excited for him to potentially do the same in the 155-pound division.

UFC’s big plans with Ilia Topuria 

The UFC plans to expand globally in 2025, targeting new cities and venues to reach more international fans and markets. Emerging locations like Africa, Southeast Asia, and new European cities are potential hotspots for major fight events. This strategy aims to grow the sport’s popularity, create unforgettable moments, and showcase local fighters on the world stage.

Ilia Topuira expected UFC event in Spain
Ilia Topuira expected UFC event in Spain (via X)

One of the biggest plans is to host the first event in Spain, capitalizing on Ilia Topuria’s rising stardom. Topuria’s success has ignited Spanish MMA interest, making a UFC event there highly anticipated. A Spain card featuring Topuria would boost UFC’s European expansion and further establish him as a national hero.

In the past, White had talked about having discussions with Real Madrid and FC Barcelona to rent their stadiums. Recently, Daniel Cormier explained UFC’s vision to sell out an entire arena of over 80,000 seats in the future. Given the grand idea, the  Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev title fight makes the most sense for the promotion.

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