Islam Makhachev predicts worrying future for Ilia Topuria’s ambition: “Gained fat…”

UFC superstar Islam Makhachev mocks featherweight champion Ilia Topuria after getting a callout for a potential fight.

Islam Makhachev predicts worrying future for Ilia Topuria’s ambition: “Gained fat…”

Islam Makhachev warns Ilia Topuria about lightweight debut (via Imago/Instagram)

Islam Makhachev is in search of a new opponent for his next lightweight outing. Among the top candidates, featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is the fan favorite for a title shot. However, according to the pound-for-pound number one, the Georgian-Spanish star might have to work for it. 

Ilia Topuria‘s coach previously mentioned that the champion has faced trouble making 145 lbs and wants to move up. Topuria has also talked about fighting Makhachev for the double champion status. In a recent interview, the lightweight champion took a sneaky jibe at ‘El Matador.’ 

I heard [Ilia] has problems cutting weight… he’s probably already gained fat from the good life…Let him move up, and when he earns his chance we will definitely fight.

Islam Makhachev via Match TV 
YouTube video

In order to earn his spot, Topuria has talked about potentially fighting former lightweight title contender Dustin Poirier. Apart from that, rising UFC prospect Paddy Pimblett has also called out ‘El Matador’ to settle their long going beef. Other big names such as Charles Oliveira are also suitable opponents for Topuria’s lightweight debut. 

Topuria won the featherweight title by knocking out former champion Alexander Volkanovski. After that, the Georgian-Spanish fighter managed to defend his belt by stopping Max Holloway at UFC UFC 308. His incredible performances and performances have made him a crowd favorite. 

Ilia Topuria believes he can drop Islam Makhachev in a fight 

Islam Makhachev has proved multiple times why he’s the best fighter on the UFC roster. The Dagestani is sharp on the feet and quite dominant in wrestling. He has fought and defeated decorated fighters like Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski. 

Ilia Topuria talks about potentially knocking out Islam Makhachev
Ilia Topuria talks about potentially knocking out Islam Makhachev (via X)

Similarly, Ilia Topuria is one of the most complete fighters and has the ability to submit and knock out his opponents. The featherweight champion always finds his target, and it could be a problem for Makhachev. In a recent interview, Topuria shed light on his aspect of the fight. 

We all know at some point I will connect that punch, everything will depend on what God will decide… if he wants to send Islam to sleep or not.

Ilia Topuria via FULL SEND PODCAST 

According to many fight fans, this is a dream matchup, and the UFC is well aware of it. While Makhachev himself is aiming for his double champion status, Dana White has talked about having plans for the fighter. It would be interesting to see whether the promotion pushed this rivalry further. 

Related: Ilia Topuria Net Worth, UFC Contract, Endorsements, and House