Ilia Topuria is intensifying his verbal attacks.
Earlier this year, Topuria relinquished his featherweight title to move up to the 155-pound lightweight division, aiming for a second championship belt. This move by the 28-year-old Spanish fighter surprised many, leading to expectations of an immediate lightweight title shot for Topuria.
However, this has not yet materialized. Current lightweight champion and top pound-for-pound ranked fighter, Islam Makhachev, insists Topuria must earn a lightweight title shot instead of receiving it automatically for changing weight classes. This stance seems to displease Topuria. In a recent interview, Topuria essentially accused Makhachev of being scared, as both top-ranked fighters continue their verbal sparring.
Topuria stated he is preparing for a fight with Islam Makhachev. He emphasized that his training is focused on either Makhachev or Charles Oliveira, as he sees no other legitimate contenders. According to Topuria, neither Makhachev nor Oliveira are showing eagerness to accept a fight.
Topuria commented on the common notion that champions should accept any fight offered and questioned why Makhachev is concerned about his “small” size. He pointed out that upon moving up in weight class, he was labeled “small” and then told he “hasn`t earned” a title shot yet. Topuria interprets this as a display of fear from Makhachev, though he adds it`s “normal” and he would also be afraid in Makhachev`s position.
It`s worth noting that Topuria is ranked second in the MMA Fighting global pound-for-pound rankings and was named “Fighter of the Year” for his successful 2024. Nevertheless, he has only one title defense to his name, which doesn`t qualify him as a long-reigning champion typically granted immediate title shots when changing weight classes.
Conversely, Makhachev is the UFC`s longest-reigning current champion, with four successful lightweight title defenses. He recently defeated Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January and has frequently expressed his desire to move up a weight class and pursue a second title.
