Islam Makhachev open to super fight with lightweight champion Ilia Topuria but reveals this one clear condition

Islam Makhachev has not closed the door on a blockbuster fight against Ilia Topuria. The matchup is already being seen as one of the biggest fights the UFC can put together. Both men are champions. Both are elite, and both believe they are the best fighters in the world right now.

Makhachev is the current welterweight champion after moving up from lightweight. Topuria, meanwhile, holds the lightweight title and is also a former featherweight champion. The two have exchanged verbal shots for months. Makhachev sits at No. 1 in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, with Topuria close behind at No. 2.

Islam Makhachev welcomes the fight against Ilia Topuria but refuses to move down

Islam Makhachev recently spoke to Match TV about the possible fight. He made it clear that he is not against the idea. He said he has no issue with fighting Ilia Topuria if it makes sense. However, the Russian star stressed that he will not drop back down in weight.

Makhachev explained that he already ruled the lightweight division. He said nobody defeated him there. He added that he gave up the belt on his own and moved up for new challenges. Going back down just to fight for another belt does not excite him. In his view, if Topuria truly wants the fight, he should be the one moving up to welterweight.

Makhachev also pointed out that the risk is lower for Topuria. He suggested that Topuria can afford to take the chance. If Topuria loses at welterweight, he can simply return to lightweight and continue defending his title. Makhachev agreed that the fight would mean more for Topuria than for him, saying his own chapter at lightweight is already closed.

The welterweight champion also believes Topuria still has unfinished business at lightweight. He feels Topuria has yet to fully prove himself in that division. Makhachev mentioned that Arman Tsarukyan keeps calling Topuria out and is eager for a title fight.

Meanwhile, Jack Della Maddalena has shared his view on the potential matchup. Makhachev defeated Maddalena at UFC 322 to win the welterweight belt. Speaking on N3on’s stream, Maddalena leaned toward Makhachev winning. He felt Makhachev’s size would play a big role. Still, he did not dismiss Topuria. He noted that Topuria hits very hard and could be dangerous if the fight stays standing. Maddalena believes it would be an exciting fight and one the fans deserve to see.

Also Read: “I’ll be champion of world”- Ian Machado Garry sends strong warning to Islam Makhachev ahead of possible UFC title fight




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