Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria Gives Training Camp Update Ahead of Rumored International Fight Week Matchup

UFC pound-for-pound king Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria share snippets from their respective training camp ahead of the rumored fight.

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria Gives Training Camp Update Ahead of Rumored International Fight Week Matchup

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria are looking sharp ahead of their potential title fight (via X/Imago)

The UFC lightweight division is desperate for an official announcement for what’s next for the champion Islam Makhachev. Being the most competitive division in the promotion, there are some big names who are waiting for the title shot. However, it seems like its former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is next in line to fight the pound-for-pound ace.

Topuria was initially rejected by Makhachev’s team, who believed he added nothing meaningful to the reigning lightweight champion’s growing legacy. Despite the dismissal, Topuria remained stubbornly committed to fighting for the lightweight title and refused other fight offers. Despite any announcement, multiple signs suggest Makhachev vs. Topuria could happen during UFC’s International Fight Week.

Both fighters have simultaneously begun training camps, displaying intense focus and commitment ahead of their potential lightweight championship clash. A viral image recently surfaced showing Topuria incredibly jacked, hinting at serious preparation for his much-anticipated debut in the 155-pound division. Meanwhile, Makhachev was captured drilling spinning elbows on the heavy bag, drawing comparisons to Jon Jones’ legendary striking.

Before vacating his featherweight belt, Topuria engaged in online beef with Makhachev and his team through heated social media exchanges. He publicly mocked Dagestani wrestling, labeling their fighters as quitters and questioning the toughness often associated with their dominant grappling style. Topuria even cited Merab Dvalishvili’s recent beatdown of Umar Nurmagomedov as evidence to support his controversial claims. 

Irrespective of his knockout power and all-around fighting style, Topuria will most probably be the underdog in the bout. Many experts believe that the size difference and grappling ability of Makhachev could overwhelm the Georgian-Spanish star in a five-round fight. If the fight happens, Makhachev needs to get a convincing win to shift his focus to becoming a double champion. 

Islam Makhachev to fight Belal Muhammad soon?

Islam Makhachev has long been eyeing a second UFC title, aiming to conquer the welterweight division after lightweight dominance. However, Belal Muhammad holding the welterweight belt forced Makhachev to postpone his ambitions, creating tension within the championship picture. This extended wait frustrated many fans and even sparked a potentially heated situation between Muhammad and Makhachev.

Islam Makhachev to fight Belal Muhammad next
Islam Makhachev to fight Belal Muhammad next (via X)

Recently, UFC CBO Hunter Campbell traveled to Dagestan, reportedly to hold important discussions with Makhachev. As expected, his visit sparked widespread speculation about potential future fights involving Makhachev and the promotion’s evolving plans. In a recent interview, Muhammad was asked about fighting Makhachev, and he clearly denied any such developments. 

Nah, I don’t think they would do that. I talked to Khabib all the time. He even messaged me the other day. So, like I said, these guys are about big loyalty.

Belal Muhammad via UFC 315 Media Day

The welterweight champion has spent significant time training with Khabib Nurmagomedov and his team in preparation for many of his major fights. He credited the Dagestani legend for completely transforming his mindset and instilling the mentality required to become a UFC champion. Out of deep respect for Makhachev, Muhammad has repeatedly turned down any opportunity to fight Makhachev.

However, many experts believe that this feeling is not mutual and the pound-for-pound king doesn’t mind fighting Muhammad. Currently, the Palestinian champion is scheduled to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. If he loses, it will make things easier for Makhachev, who would move up without any doubts. 

Ahead of the fight, Muhammad had shut down Makhachev’s dreams as he was confident about his title defense. He recently suggested that the Dagestani to sign another fight and stop waiting for the welterweight title. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see how things turn out in the future. 

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