Ilia Topuria is eager to confront Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Known as “La Leyenda,” Topuria is moving to the 155-pound division with a clear goal: to defeat Makhachev for the UFC lightweight championship. The current featherweight champion is relinquishing his title this Saturday, allowing Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes to compete for it at UFC 314.
While a fight between Topuria and Makhachev hasn`t been officially scheduled, Topuria has often discussed the possibility. In a recent interview, when asked about his advantages over the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter, Topuria expressed strong confidence and sent a message to Makhachev’s mentor.
“If you ask me, I believe I have the advantage in every aspect,” Topuria stated. “Personally, I would ask him, ‘What’s your favorite submission?’ Because I’m going to submit you with that move.”
“I’ll take him down near Khabib. I will submit him right in front of Khabib. Khabib used to take opponents down, talk to Dana White. I’ll do the same to Makhachev, and then talk to Khabib. Khabib, I have to do this.”
Nurmagomedov has previously suggested Topuria should earn a title shot at 155 pounds rather than receive an immediate opportunity. Both Topuria and Makhachev have impressive records. Topuria boasts a 16-0 record, recently defeating Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Makhachev is on a 15-fight winning streak since 2015, including five title defenses.
Although Topuria is awaiting news about his lightweight debut, he doubts UFC CEO Dana White will require him to compete in a No. 1 contender fight.
“[White] wouldn’t propose that to me,” Topuria commented. “He would offer a title fight.”
“There’s no scenario where I need to fight a No. 1 contender,” Topuria continued. “My fight must be directly for the belt. Personally, I’m hoping for summer, perhaps September.”
Topuria understands Nurmagomedov’s perspective on his title credentials, recognizing they are considering the situation from different viewpoints.
“He says I don’t deserve it, but he’s speaking from a fighter’s perspective,” Topuria explained. “From a promoter’s perspective, things are viewed somewhat differently.”
