Ilia Topuria is prepared to make a major move in pursuit of an epic UFC super fight against Islam Makhachev. After the retirement of Jon Jones, which dashed many hopes for a heavyweight showdown in the 2025 season, Topuria is stepping up to chase Makhachev as both fighters adjust their weight classes. Known for his confidence and precision, Topuria has made it clear he will not let the opportunity to face Makhachev slip away, even if it means pushing his fighting weight as high as 170 pounds.

Originally competing at 145 pounds, Topuria vacated his featherweight title to return as a lightweight and challenge Makhachev. However, Makhachev’s move to the welterweight division after UFC 315 has complicated plans, leaving Topuria to contend for a vacant lightweight belt this summer while maintaining his sights on a future meeting with Makhachev at 170 pounds.

Topuria’s Vision to Become UFC’s First Triple-Division Champion

Topuria’s ambitions extend beyond a single division. He expressed his willingness to chase Makhachev into the welterweight division if the Dagestani fighter captures the title there. This pursuit would position Topuria to possibly become the first UFC fighter to hold belts in three weight categories, a historic feat in the sport.

To be honest, …I wanted to face [Islam Makhachev] because he was the guy who was dominating anyone and everyone…[as 155-pounder]…But at the end of the day, I can’t control what they do. The only thing I can control is what I do. So I wanted to move up, …I wanted to fight for the title of this division. That’s what I’m doing. We’ll see how he does in the welterweight division, if he wins the title and I win the title in the lightweight division… If Islam becomes the world welterweight champion, for sure I’m going to push for that shot and I will move to the welterweight division.

—Ilia Topuria ahead of UFC 317 PPV pre-fight Open Workouts

This statement from Topuria was made during Friday’s Open Workouts preceding UFC 317, where he reaffirmed his confidence in winning the main event and demonstrated readiness to follow Makhachev into higher weight classes. Fellow UFC competitors have commented on Topuria’s rare bone density for a fighter of his lighter origins, suggesting he is physically built to handle welterweight competition.

Islam Makhachev’s Potential Moves Could Shift UFC Landscape

Makhachev’s next moves remain uncertain, as rumors swirl about a possible jump to 185 pounds following his rivalry with welterweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. Although his natural physique supports competing at larger weights, his current trajectory toward welterweight and Topuria’s willingness to pursue him there ensure that this matchup will not be indefinitely stalled.

Topuria Elevates Rivalry with Paddy Pimblett Above Makhachev Challenge

While the potential clash with Makhachev is significant, Topuria has openly declared that his ongoing rivalry with lightweight Paddy Pimblett holds even greater importance. The feud between Topuria and Pimblett has been longstanding, marked by public banter and contrasting styles. Pimblett, who has rapidly climbed the lightweight rankings, including noteworthy wins against King Green and Michael Chandler, represents a more immediate and compelling opponent in Topuria’s eyes.

Topuria emphasized Pimblett’s rising stature and suggested that his battle with Pimblett would captivate more attention and bring a bigger fight atmosphere than one with Makhachev, whom he dismisses as less popular even within his home crowd.

I think that it’s going to be even bigger, me against Paddy than me against Islam…because the one who no onI think that it’s going to be even bigger, me against Paddy than me against Islam…because the one who no one gives a fu*k— about him, that’s Islam. No one gives a fu*k… Even in Dagestan, when he’s fighting, the people go to sleep and they watch his next fight in the morning… Even at home, who gives a fu*k— about Islam? He doesn’t even know how to pronounce two words.

—Ilia Topuria to Kevin Iole

Topuria insists he will face Makhachev regardless of the latter’s avoidance tactics, while also pursuing the historic goal of becoming the UFC’s first triple-champ. With Makhachev’s next fight still unconfirmed, the Dagestani star is expected to return for UFC’s October PPV event, likely held in Abu Dhabi.

Background on Topuria and the Lightweight Division Dynamics

Ilia Topuria’s record in the lightweight division is still taking shape, having faced a limited number of opponents at 155 pounds. His wins over former champions such as Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway showcase his striking power and championship potential. With a vacant lightweight belt up for grabs this summer, Topuria’s contest at UFC 317 is a pivotal moment that could define the next steps in his career.

At the same time, the lightweight and welterweight divisions appear ready for a shake-up as Makhachev pursues ambitions beyond his current weight, aligning with Topuria’s readiness to adapt and follow him across divisions.

Setting the Stage for Potential UFC Milestones and Major Matchups

The UFC community is closely watching as Topuria’s determination to chase Makhachev into higher weight classes suggests a high-stakes clash in the near future. This pursuit not only offers a compelling storyline of skill versus skill but also sets the stage for Topuria’s historic attempt to become the first fighter with titles in three separate divisions. Meanwhile, Topuria’s rivalry with Paddy Pimblett continues to generate significant buzz, potentially becoming one of the sport’s biggest matchups if it comes to fruition.

The outcome of UFC 317 and subsequent title fights will likely dictate the UFC’s next blockbuster superfight, shaping the landscape of the lightweight and welterweight divisions, and providing fans with thrilling contests at several weight classes.