Islam Makhachev Nominates High-Skilled Teammate to Beat Ilia Topuria and Entire UFC Lightweight Division

Usman Nurmagomedov’s rise as PFL champion fuels talk of a UFC move, as Islam Makhachev backs him to clear out UFC lightweight division.

Islam Makhachev Nominates High-Skilled Teammate to Beat Ilia Topuria and Entire UFC Lightweight Division

Islam Makhachev warns Ilia Topuria about Usman (via Reddit, Instagram)

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Dagestani fighters have built a legacy of dominance through loyalty and shared discipline, often uplifting one another on their rise to greatness. From Islam Makhachev to Usman Nurmagomedov, their unity continues to shape the modern MMA landscape. Their blend of wrestling, control, and precision has made Dagestan one of the sport’s most respected regions worldwide.

Usman Nurmagomedov has emerged as one of the top lightweights outside the UFC. The undefeated fighter has beaten names like Patricky Pitbull, Benson Henderson, and Paul Hughes. His recent win over Hughes in their PFL title rematch secured his lightweight crown and reaffirmed his reputation for skill, composure, and adaptability under pressure.

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov previously claimed Usman was better than the current UFC lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria. His longtime teammate, Makhachev, recently echoed that belief, aligning with his mentor’s confidence. The former lightweight champion believed in Usman’s prowess when he was asked how Usman would match up against the UFC’s lightweights.

He can beat everybody, because I know his skills, he is really good. He is still growing up. He is 26-27, he still have time to become stronger but skills he have everything.

Islam Makhachev via Weighing In

Topuria captured the vacant 155-pound title by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, marking his debut in the division. This led to Usman also calling out Topuria, arguing that his record at lightweight surpasses the UFC champion’s achievements. The comparison between the two champions has fueled discussion about how their skills might measure up.

Many see Usman as the natural successor to Islam within the UFC lightweight landscape. His dominance in the PFL and his undefeated streak make him a prime candidate to continue Dagestan’s tradition of producing world champions. Even former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley had suggested that Usman’s arrival could raise the division’s competitive bar.

Recently, Usman was spotted in Umar Nurmagomedov’s corner at UFC 321, where he spoke with Dana White and Hunter Campbell, sparking rumors of a UFC debut. The sighting led many to believe that early discussions may already be underway. As Islam Makhachev pursues his goals at welterweight, the foundation seems set for Usman Nurmagomedov to carry forward Dagestan’s legacy of excellence.

UFC veteran weighs in on Islam Makhachev’s welterweight debut

Islam Makhachev is set to make his welterweight debut at UFC 322, where he will challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight championship. As the bout edges closer, Makhachev has intensified his training under the guidance of Khabib Nurmagomedov, focusing on strength, conditioning, and strategic adjustments for the higher weight class.

Dustin Poirier supports Islam Makhachev
Dustin Poirier supports Islam Makhachev (via BBC)

One of the biggest concerns surrounding Makhachev’s transition has been the physical difference between him and Maddalena. The Australian striker has previously suggested that the former lightweight champion may be undersized for the division. However, Dustin Poirier recently downplayed those concerns, believing that Makhachev’s skill set and execution could outweigh any size disadvantage.

Islam isn’t a small guy, he’s big. I’m not sure how big Jack is, I’ve never seen him in person. I don’t think it’s going to be about size, I think it’s gonna come down to execution. If Islam can secure the takedowns, and Jack’s takedown defense. I don’t think size is going to be the story of this fight.

Dustin Poirier via Mike Bohn

Poirier’s comments carry weight, given his firsthand experience facing Makhachev and his exposure to the Dagestani style built on wrestling and Sambo fundamentals. That background likely shaped his belief in Makhachev’s adaptability regardless of division. In preparation for UFC 322, Islam Makhachev has visibly added muscle mass and physical strength, signaling his readiness to compete against welterweights.

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