Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy catches stray from Ilia Topuria as UFC star scoffs at Jon Jones comparisons

When naming his all-time top three fighters, Ilia Topuria drew comparisons between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones.

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy catches stray from Ilia Topuria as UFC star scoffs at Jon Jones comparisons

Ilia Topuria took a subtle dig at Khabib Nurmagomedov while picking Jon Jones as his favorite (Image via MMA Fighting/The Mirror/ESPN)

Many notable standout fighters from different regions have fought in the UFC. As a result, everyone has their own set of favorite competitors in the promotion. Recently, UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria shared his thoughts on the matter. As such, with that, he even drew interesting comparisons between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones.

‘El Matador’ is currently one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC. Topuria recently appeared on an episode of the FULL SEND PODCAST, where he discussed several intriguing topics related to the UFC community. Notably, the UFC star took some bold shots at Dagestani fighters. When asked to name his top three UFC fighters, he dismissed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s credibility in comparison to Jon Jones.

The first one has to be Jon Jones. You have to give the credit to that man because to me, (it’s) funny when I see people comparing him with the Dagestani guys, even with Khabib, with Islam or that. All the respect to all the champions but for example, Khabib, he has how many 14, 15 fights in the UFC, Jon Jones had… have 15 title defenses.

Ilia Topuria via FULL SEND PODCAST (Check from 28:05)
YouTube video

According to Topuria’s analysis, Jones has more title defenses in the UFC than Nurmagomedov has had fights in the promotion. This observation holds some truth when considering the statistics of both fighters. Throughout his UFC career, Nurmagomedov participated in a total of 13 fights, while Jones, who became the youngest UFC champion, has successfully defended his title 12 times.

Moreover, Jones has won over 15 title fights in the UFC as well. Over the years, there have been many discussions surrounding this topic, with everyone expressing their strong opinions. Currently, while Nurmagomedov has chosen to retire with a perfect record, Jones continues to compete and reigns as the UFC heavyweight champion.

As a result of Jones’ longevity and dominance, fighters like Ilia Topuria tend to lean more toward supporting ‘Bones.’ However, this isn’t the only buzzing topic ‘El Matador’ addressed in the podcast session.

Ilia Topuria explains his reason for pursuing a matchup against Islam Makhachev

The ongoing discussion about various champions pursuing double-champion status in the UFC has been making headlines. Notably, UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, like Islam Makhachev and other champions, is eager to enhance his reputation further. In addition to his ambition to become a double champion, Topuria has also expressed another motivation for wanting to face Makhachev in the octagon.

Global star Ilia Topuria poised to derail Islam Makhachev hype
Global star Ilia Topuria poised to derail Islam Makhachev hype (Source: es.agfight.com/X)

Topuria is in absolute peak form in the UFC. After dethroning Alexander Volkanovski as the UFC featherweight champion, Topuria also defended his title against Max Holloway in his most recent fight. As a result, brimming with confidence, ‘El Matador’ asserted that he doesn’t have many tough competitors left in the 145 lbs division.

I really believe that I can beat the current champion, Islam… He’s a beast but I like the competition. I don’t like to be a bully and fight with people that I know 100% that I’m gonna whoop his a**. I like to fight with people that the fans think that it’s gonna be very competitive… With Islam, I’m gonna have that.

Ilia Topuria via FULL SEND PODCAST

Topuria emphasized that his fight against Makhachev would be highly competitive and a treat for spectators. Meanwhile, the UFC lightweight champion has consistently dismissed the idea of a matchup against the reigning UFC featherweight champion. Now, it remains to be seen whether the promotion will schedule a fight between Topuria and Makhachev next.

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