A showdown between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev is a dream fight many UFC fans have been craving. With Topuria’s undefeated streak and Makhachev’s reign of dominance, the matchup promises fireworks. Yet, Topuria has surprisingly downplayed the bout, stating Makhachev doesn’t have enough star power to make it massive. Instead, he claims a fight with Paddy Pimblett would generate more hype and attention.

Speaking to Kevin Iole, Topuria took a brutal shot at Makhachev, dismissing his relevance in the fight game. The former featherweight champ claimed a potential matchup with Pimblett would be far bigger than facing Makhachev, arguing that fans don’t care about the lightweight champ. He even went as far as to say people in Dagestan don’t watch him live and mocked his speaking ability.

I think that’s going to be even bigger, me against Paddy than me against Islam. Because no one give a f**k about him that’s Islam. Who gives a f*** about Islam… even in Dagestan when he is fighting the people go to sleep and watch his fight in the morning. He doesn’t even know how to pronounce two words,” he said.

Indeed, with this, the Spaniard has reignited the rivalry and made it clear that he doesn’t see the former lightweight champ as a significant draw. Topuria’s sharp remarks questioned Makhachev’s star power and downplayed his global appeal. Meanwhile, Umar Nurmagomedov has shared some big news about Makhachev.

UFC Forced Islam Makhachev To Vacate Lightweight Title To Clear Path For Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria slams Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria (Photos by Gary A. Vasquez/Imagn Images)

Khabib’s cousin revealed that Makhachev wasn’t willing to give up his lightweight title but ultimately had to vacate it. The UFC is eager to see Ilia Topuria become the 155-pound champion, believing Topuria has strong star power and can sell fights. Despite Makhachev‘s reluctance, the plan involves him moving up to 170 pounds, possibly winning that belt, before returning to lightweight to try and hold both titles simultaneously.

If true, this marks a major shift in the UFC landscape. Forcing Islam Makhachev, one of the most dominant lightweight champions in recent history, to vacate his title is no small move. It signals the UFC’s faith in Ilia Topuria’s star power and marketability. 

Also Read: Charles Oliveira Ups The Ante By Asking Ilia Topuria To ‘Respect’ Lightweight Fighters



Ilia Topuria Destroys Islam Makhachev, Dismissing His Star Power: “Who Gives A F**k”
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