Islam Makhachev Interested in Ilia Topuria Super Fight But Under One Condition

Former UFC pound-for-pound king Islam Makhachev talks about the potential superfight with lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

Islam Makhachev Interested in Ilia Topuria Super Fight But Under One Condition

Islam Makhachev isn't interested in fighting Ilia Topuria at lightweight (via X)

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There are very few UFC fights that excite fans more than a potential superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. Both fighters have exchanged words for months, but Makhachev’s move to welterweight temporarily distanced this highly anticipated matchup. However, the idea of this thrilling showdown remains alive as the Dagestani champion recently shared new updates about its possibility.

Since becoming the new lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria has frequently mocked Makhachev to build hype for their potential clash. According to UFC CEO Dana White, if Makhachev wins his upcoming welterweight fight, a bout with Topuria will likely follow next. In a recent interview, the Dagestani champion expressed clear disinterest in facing Topuria despite the growing attention around it.

How could it be interesting to me? What will I gain by going down to 155 and beating Topuria? The fans are mostly interested in it. I’m not interested in cutting weight to 155 and torturing myself again.

Islam Makhachev via Match TV 

Makhachev is set to face Jack Della Maddalena in a welterweight title bout at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden. Ahead of the fight, he appears pleased with his improved physique and is enjoying training without enduring a difficult weight cut. Going into the fight, Makhachev is the betting favorite; however, JDM does have chances to deliver a massive upset. 

Topuria recently mocked Makhachev by saying that if the ex-champ lost his first welterweight bout, he must return to Dagestan. The Georgian-Spanish fighter believes that a potential clash between him and Makhachev at the White House event could become the biggest fight in UFC history. However, Makhachev mentioned that if White wants him to face Topuria, UFC must offer a lucrative fight purse.

Both fighters’ statements have ignited massive excitement, building anticipation for what could become a truly historic UFC showdown soon. However, before that, the Dagestani must successfully overcome the tough upcoming challenge that currently stands directly in front of him.

Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria remain focused on his first title defense in the lightweight division. The UFC is carefully handling the dangerous contenders waiting within the highly competitive lightweight division as the challenger to Topuria’s throne.

UFC lightweight questions Ilia Topuria’s ability against wrestlers

Ilia Topuria has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant and marketable names on the current UFC roster. The Georgian-Spanish sensation has achieved rare greatness by capturing championships in two divisions, showcasing unmatched versatility and a relentless fighting spirit.

Ilia Topuria knocks out Max Holloway at UFC 308
Ilia Topuria knocks out Max Holloway at UFC 308 (via X)

Often compared to Conor McGregor, Topuria possesses the same confident aura, predicting fight outcomes accurately while backing them up with dominant performances. Known for his knockout power, he has dismantled elite opponents like Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway through flawless striking technique.

When it comes to stand-up combat, nobody in modern MMA matches the efficiency, speed, and technical mastery of ‘El Matador’. However, critics often argue that Topuria’s resume lacks true wrestling tests, questioning his adaptability against elite grapplers within the divisions. Recently, rising lightweight Benoit Saint Denis echoed this sentiment, expressing a strong interest in facing Topuria someday.

He’s a very good fighter, but I think he hasn’t faced the styles that could pose the most problems for him in this weight [145 lbs], clearly not. I think there are several profiles and several ways of fighting that could pose problems for him, and we’re going to try to earn our spot so we can face him one day

Benoit Saint Denis via RCM 

BSD is currently riding an impressive two-fight win streak, renowned for his relentless grappling and submission-oriented fighting style. Nevertheless, several reports suggest that Paddy Pimblett could be next to face Ilia Topuria, reigniting their long-standing personal rivalry.

 As a skilled grappler, Pimblett might test Topuria’s ground game and attempt to capture the lightweight championship. However, the British fighter must first withstand Topuria’s devastating striking power and survive the dangerous initial exchanges.

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