Islam Makhachev Rates Conor McGregor Levels Above Ilia Topuria in One Aspect

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev compares Ilia Topuria to prime Conor McGregor.

Islam Makhachev Rates Conor McGregor Levels Above Ilia Topuria in One Aspect

Islam Makhachev chooses between Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria ( via X)

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Ilia Topuria is undoubtedly one of the biggest names on the UFC roster, with consistent performances elevating his status among fans. The fighter first won the UFC featherweight championship and later moved up to become the lightweight champion. His journey and dominance have drawn comparisons to Conor McGregor, and Islam Makhachev is clearly aware of those discussions.

Makhachev is one of the biggest rivals of Ilia Topuria, and both fighters have been trading words for a long time. Despite the bad blood between them, the Dagestani remains fully aware of the skillset and abilities of ‘El Matador’. In a recent interview, Makhachev was asked to compare Topuria with prime McGregor, and he responded directly.

I think when it comes to pure power, maybe Topuria has more. But as a counter-puncher, I think McGregor was better. His timing, how he waited… The way he met his opponents with his left hand, making them miss and countering. I think that was on another level.

Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka 

Makhachev witnessed Conor McGregor closely during the UFC 229 fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov live inside the arena. Makhachev was present supporting Nurmagomedov when the ‘Eagle’ dominated McGregor and secured a submission victory at UFC 229. He was among the fighters who entered the Octagon during the infamous post-fight brawl involving McGregor’s team.

McGregor, in his prime, was regarded as one of the best counter-punchers, finishing opponents like Jose Aldo. He also dismantled Eddie Alvarez with precise timing and counters, showcasing accuracy and fight IQ at the highest level. In contrast, Topuria relies more on raw power and sharp movement to overwhelm opponents and secure knockout victories.

Throughout his career, Topuria has often been accused of copying McGregor’s tattoos, mannerisms, and public persona. Many critics have also pointed to similarities in his trash-talking style and confident approach during interviews and promotions. Despite that, both fighters dislike each other and have shared serious public beefs. 

Islam Makhachev is still expected to fight Topuria in what is being labeled the biggest matchup on the current roster. However, with both fighters occupied in their respective divisions, making this highly anticipated fight is far from easy.

Islam Makhachev explains his reasons to fight Kamaru Usman 

Islam Makhachev became the welterweight champion by defeating Jack Della Maddalena, capturing the welterweight title, and announcing his arrival to the welterweights. Following the victory, the champion stated his goal was to achieve the most title defenses in welterweight history going forward. Since winning gold, he has been called out by contenders, including Ian Garry, Carlos Prates, and Michael Morales.

Islam Makhachev's next fight
Islam Makhachev’s next fight (via X)

Despite those challenges, Makhachev has expressed interest in fighting former champion Kamaru Usman for legacy reasons. The decision has drawn criticism from fans and analysts who prefer seeing him face younger contenders immediately, rather than waiting. However, the welterweight champion recently explained his motivation, emphasizing Usman’s resume and championship experience

He’s more experienced. You saw his last fight, when he beat Buckley. He was a contender too, a lot of hopes were placed on him, but Kamaru ran through him and people just forgot about him. Same with these guys, they’re still young. Kamaru will run them over with experience. I think he’s still in a good condition 

Islam Makhachev continued. 

Despite his past relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov, Usman is ready to fight Islam Makhachev, given the financial potential. The pound-for-pound king has already denied that he has no interest in fighting in January and will be back after Ramadan. He has asked for the White House event, but that remains unlikely at the moment. 

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