Khabib Nurmagomedov involvement revealed in Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria super fight

Khabib Nurmagomedov's intervention might be the biggest reason behind Islam Makhachev rejecting Ilia Topuria's title challenge. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov involvement revealed in Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria super fight

Khabib Nurmagomedov doesn't want Islam Makhachev to fight Ilia Topuria now (via Imago/X)

Ilia Topuria is determined to end the Dagestani era, calling out Islam Makhachev despite previously being dismissed by the lightweight champion. Makhachev initially shut down the challenge, which attracted an array of criticism towards the pound-for-pound ace. With Topuria’s confidence and Khabib Nurmagomedov’s possible involvement, the Makhachev vs. Topuria saga continues to take unexpected turns. 

Makhachev is known for accepting any challenge, yet his refusal to fight Topuria sparked speculation about potential fear. Rumors grew that Makhachev was avoiding Topuria, questioning whether the Georgian-Spanish fighter posed a serious threat to his reign. Henry Cejudo recently addressed the situation, offering insights while also considering Nurmagomedov’s possible intervention.

I remember talking to Khabib, and Khabib said it’s not fair for Ilia to skip the line and go after the title shot with Islam because that’s all Islam’s been doing. He gave Volkanovski a couple title [shots] where he has gone up. So I don’t even think it’s going to be Islam’s choice. I think Khabib is going to step in and be like, ‘He needs to fight the No. 1 contender.’

Henry Cejudo via MMA Junkie

Nurmagomedov has always played a crucial role in Makhachev’s rise, mentoring him with elite wrestling, strategy, and mental toughness. After retiring, he actively coached Makhachev, guiding him through training camps and cornering him during key fights for the title. His influence shaped Makhachev’s mindset, helping him dominate opponents and he continues to make the big decisions for the champ. 

Nurmagomedov has always respected Topuria’s power, especially after dominant knockouts of legends like Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Topuria poses a real threat, but Makhachev’s elite grappling, composure, and championship experience give him the tools to secure his fifth title defense. A clash between them promises explosive action; however, for now, fans might not get it.

Islam Makhachev’s next opponent 

Ilia Topuria has long pursued a fight with Islam Makhachev, even vacating his featherweight title to chase this opportunity. While weight cutting was given as the main reason, it has been revealed the UFC promised him the lightweight title shot. On top of that, their online exchanges, filled with heated words and bold claims, have also fueled fan interest and media speculation. 

Islam Makhachev to fight Justin Gaethje next
Islam Makhachev to fight Justin Gaethje next (via MMA Fighting)

The lightweight champion has already mentioned that he will most probably return on the International Fight Week. Apart from Topuria, Justin Gaethje, who recently picked up a win, is the only option. Gaethje hasn’t fought the pound-for-pound ace and many experts believe that it’s a great recipe for an entertaining title bout. 

I think somebody like Justin Gaethje, who has put on these legendary fights, these epic battles and just entertained the crowds – just like he did last time out against Rafael Fiziev, what a fight that was. I think the man deserves it, and I think it might just happen because what’s happening is, Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira are talking a lot of sh*t back-and-forth, and that just might be the fight that gets made.

Michael Bisping via his YouTube channel 

The former BMF champion has already had two title shots, one of which ended in a submission loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov. That fight marked Nurmagomedov’s final appearance, where he dominated Gaethje and submitted him in the second round before retiring undefeated. A future clash with Makhachev gives Gaethje a chance at redemption and a shot to finally claim UFC gold. 

Why do fight fans not want to see Islam Makhachev vs. Justin Gaethje 

Many fight fans feel that Islam Makhachev vs. Justin Gaethje lacks excitement due to Gaethje’s past struggles against elite grapplers. They believe Makhachev’s dominant wrestling could lead to a one-sided fight, similar to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s win over Gaethje, making the matchup predictable. 

Islam Makhachev's dominance is getting boring
Islam Makhachev’s dominance is getting boring (via X)

Fans prefer more competitive matchups, and Ilia Topuria fits the description perfectly. Both fighters are regarded as the most complete fighters in the roster, making this potential battle legendary. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if the UFC manages to bank on this excitement before it’s too late. 

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