“100% would defeat him,” Ilia Topuria confesses admiration for Khabib Nurmagomedov and admits dream fight to challenge Dagestani

Conversations about legends in the UFC remain long after they have retired from the sport. The dominance they achieved in their careers remains an enigma for the newcomers in the sport. One such legend is Khabib Nurmagomedov. The undefeated former champion continues to remain in MMA conversations, even after he retired in 2020. Ilia Topuria recently revealed his desire to face retired legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. 

Topuria named Nurmagomedov as his ultimate “dream fight” in an interview. Topuria admired Nurmagomedov’s skill and achievements. He believed in matching up well with ‘The Eagle’ and remained confident in beating Nurmagomedov. This is what he stated:

I would be happy to enter the octagon with Khabib Nurmagomedov. He had an undefeated record at 29-0 and he had an attractive record for me, then also history. He is a worthy and honorable champion for me. [I would 100% defeat him].

Ilia Topuria during an Interview

Topuria earned the featherweight belt by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298. The confident Topuria has called out several big names since winning the title. However, facing the dominant Nurmagomedov remains particularly meaningful. Nurmagomedov retired in 2020 with a flawless 29-0 record. The Dagestani grappler defended his lightweight title against elite competition during his UFC run.

Realistically, a Nurmagomedov clash is unlikely to materialize. Topuria first must defend his new belt against top featherweights. A rematch with Volkanovski seems probable. But the confident Topuria is eager to challenge himself against the best. Earlier, he proposed to fight with Conor McGregor.

Ilia Topuria calls out Khabib Nurmagomedov’s successor Islam Makhachev

Ilia Topuria has put Khabib Nurmagomedov’s top student and successor, Islam Makhachev, in his crosshairs. Topuria recently called for a future matchup with the dominant lightweight titleholder. The 15-0 Spaniard has quickly set his sights on bigger challenges. Topuria wanted to jump up to lightweight and vie for a second belt against Makhachev. 

Makhachev claimed the vacant 155-pound title in October of 2022 with a submission win over Charles Oliveira. He has defended his belt twice, both times against Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev possesses feared grappling skills and ground game. But Topuria said his creative striking gave him an edge over the Dagestani.

The ambitious Topuria is already eyeing a legacy-defining run as a two-division UFC champion. The lightweight belt is firmly in his plans. Makhachev is expected back this summer against Justin Gaethje or another top 155-pounder. But Topuria alerted the champion and made his future goals crystal clear.

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