Demetrious Johnson believes Ilia Topuria faces a difficult path in his lightweight aspirations.
Topuria, the current UFC featherweight champion, is planning to move up to the 155-pound weight class with the intention of challenging lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Topuria has stated that officials have promised him an immediate title opportunity, although the UFC has not officially announced plans for either Topuria or Makhachev`s next fights.
In a conversation, Johnson shared his perspective on the lightweight title landscape, considering Makhachev`s potential pursuit of a second title in the welterweight division. This possibility hinges on the outcome of the welterweight match between champion Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena.
Johnson stated that he would put Makhachev`s lightweight title defense on hold to observe the welterweight division, specifically the fight between Jack Della Maddalena and Belal Muhammad. He suggested that if Maddalena defeats Muhammad, Makhachev should be given the chance to become a double champion. Johnson acknowledged Dana White`s reluctance towards double champions but pointed out that Makhachev has largely cleared out the lightweight division and is awaiting a new challenger.
Johnson outlined potential lightweight matchups including Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, and the newcomer Ilia Topuria. He expressed interest in seeing Makhachev compete for the 170-pound belt. Should Muhammad retain his title, Johnson proposed a rematch between Oliveira and Makhachev, with Tsarukyan facing Topuria. He also noted the presence of other contenders like Dustin Poirier, Max Holloway, and Paddy Pimblett in the lightweight division.
Makhachev was previously scheduled to defend his title against Tsarukyan, but Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury shortly before the event. Makhachev then successfully defended his title against Renato Moicano.
UFC CEO Dana White has indicated that Tsarukyan may need to earn another title shot, a sentiment Johnson agrees with. Johnson believes this situation aligns well with Topuria potentially needing to prove himself in the lightweight division before facing Makhachev.
Johnson emphasized the numerous compelling fights possible in the 155-pound division but highlighted Topuria`s move to lightweight as a major storyline. He suggested that instead of an immediate title shot, Topuria should face a test at 155 pounds, specifically proposing a fight against Arman Tsarukyan. Johnson believes this would be an excellent matchup.
Johnson reiterated that Tsarukyan was in line for a title shot before his injury, and therefore the UFC might want to see him compete at 155 pounds to re-establish his claim. He presented a fight between Tsarukyan and Topuria as a perfect solution, suggesting that in the meantime, Makhachev could face Charles Oliveira or another suitable contender.
Topuria is renowned for his knockout power, demonstrated in his victory over Alexander Volkanovski to win the featherweight title. He has also showcased his grappling abilities. Johnson, who has trained with Makhachev`s team, was asked about Topuria`s potential to out-grapple Makhachev.
Johnson acknowledged Topuria`s wrestling and grappling skills but noted that Topuria`s fights often end in knockouts. He anticipates Topuria will likely aim for a knockout against Makhachev. Johnson highlighted Makhachev`s proven submission skills against high-level grapplers, suggesting that Topuria might not rely on grappling against Makhachev, but ultimately, the fight will reveal Topuria`s strategy.
