Ilia Topuria or JDM? Khabib Nurmagomedov Picks Toughest Matchup of Islam Makhachev’s Career

Islam Makhachev's mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, gives his opinion on Jack Della Maddelena and Ilia Topuria as future opponents.

Ilia Topuria or JDM? Khabib Nurmagomedov Picks Toughest Matchup of Islam Makhachev’s Career

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Jack Della Maddelena is a bigger threat to Islam Makhachev than Ilia Topuria (via X)

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Islam Makhachev was initially scheduled to face Ilia Topuria in a highly anticipated lightweight superfight that excited MMA fans. Instead, the Dagestani champion chose to move up and now targets Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight championship. Critics claimed Makhachev avoided real challenge, calling JDM an easier matchup compared to the undefeated and confident Topuria.

Now that the Georgian-Spanish has become the new lightweight champion, fans are eager to see him face Makhachev soon. Former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has played a significant role in shaping Makhachev’s dominant UFC career and mindset. In a recent interview, the ‘Eagle’ compared Della Maddalena and Topuria, highlighting their strengths against his protege.

I think Maddalena is the toughest opponent in Islam’s career. Not Charles (Oliveira), no one else. None of those other fighters. Not even Ilia, if that fight were to happen. That’s just my personal opinion. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov via Adam Zubayraev

Nurmagomedov has trained alongside Makhachev since childhood, guiding him through intense sessions and supporting him during difficult UFC fights. In most cases, Nurmagomedov respects the opposition, but confidently backs Makhachev to dominate with his grappling. However, with a physically larger opponent like Della Maddalena at welterweight, Nurmagomedov has shown visible concern for Makhachev’s chances.

First of all, Maddalena is twice the size of Ilia. Taller, bigger, stronger legs, bigger frame. His boxing is just as good. And, in grappling, he scrambles really well if you’ve watched him. For me, if I was preparing Islam for either Ilia or Maddalena, I’d be more concerned about Maddalena. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov continued.

Since being called out by Makhachev, Della Maddalena has been intensely training and hopes the superfight happens in Perth, Australia. He’s reportedly seeking assistance from fellow Australian and featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski to devise a plan against Makhachev. Additionally, he’s training with BJJ master Craig Jones, who’s determined to help end Dagestani dominance in the UFC.

Della Maddalena recently engaged in online exchanges with Ilia Topuria, teasing a potential rivalry between the two new champions. ‘El Matador’ has expressed interest in moving up a division to get his third UFC belt before turning 30 years old. However, the UFC currently prefers Topuria to defend his lightweight title before considering a jump to welterweight competition.

Khabib Nurmagomedov slammed by Conor McGregor for Ilia Topuria comparison

The rivalry between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria has intensified with time, and Dana White is also aware of its potential. Both fighters represent different styles and backgrounds, adding fuel to the fire and building anticipation around this high-stakes potential matchup. This growing tension mirrors the iconic Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor feud, filled with national pride, trash talk, and championship ambitions.

Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Conor McGregor
Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Conor McGregor (via X)

If booked, Makhachev vs. Topuria could be one of the UFC’s biggest, most explosive fights in recent memory and importance. However, in a recent interview, Nurmagomedov downplayed the rivalry, calling Topuria a respectful fighter lacking real animosity or controversy. After these comments, the ‘Notorious’ noticed and reacted strongly, posting his opinion in a now-deleted tweet.

Fighting’s biggest b**** yapping out of his fat hole again. Cough cough.

Conor McGregor via X 

McGregor’s involvement reignited memories of his fierce rivalry with the ‘Eagle’, a feud that started at the infamous UFC 229. The two former champions still occasionally take jabs at each other during interviews, keeping their legendary animosity alive post-retirement.

While Nurmagomedov has fully stepped away from active fighting, McGregor continues teasing a return at the highly anticipated UFC White House event. If McGregor returns, it could mark one of the most dramatic comebacks in UFC history, drawing global attention once again.

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