Ilia Topuria has made it clear that he intends to pursue Islam Makhachev after the Russian claims the lightweight championship against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. However, Topuria’s challenge comes with a crucial stipulation tied to Makhachev’s current welterweight title fight.
During the International Fight Week event in Las Vegas, Topuria told Spanish media that he wants to face Makhachev only if the Russian wins the welterweight belt from Jack Della Maddalena. This condition shapes the path Topuria is willing to follow for a showdown with Makhachev.
Topuria’s Plans Depend on Makhachev’s Upcoming Fights
Topuria recently suggested the possibility of moving up a weight class or having Makhachev drop to lightweight to make the highly anticipated fight happen, should both fighters win their title bouts.
“maybe I move up or he comes down to the lightweight division and we have the fight that everyone wants to see”
—Ilia Topuria
If Makhachev fails at welterweight and attempts to return to lightweight, Topuria will not offer him an immediate title shot.
“If he loses I don’t give him anything,”
Topuria stated.
If he loses, nothing. Let him get in line.
—Ilia Topuria
Topuria’s Rise and UFC Lightweight Landscape
Topuria has built momentum with six straight UFC victories, including four finishes, before claiming the featherweight title by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski. He successfully defended his belt once against Max Holloway with another knockout, then vacated the 145-pound title to move into lightweight competition.
His upcoming opponent, Charles Oliveira, a former lightweight champion, enters UFC 317 with a record of 23 wins and 20 finishes in 34 fights, boasting impressive stoppage wins over top contenders such as Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, and Michael Chandler. Oliveira’s experience and achievements make him a formidable challenger for Topuria’s ambitions in the lightweight division.
Significance of Topuria’s Challenge and What Lies Ahead
Topuria’s insistence that Makhachev must first prove himself at welterweight before securing a title shot underscores the competitive dynamics within the UFC’s lightweight and welterweight divisions. This approach not only raises the stakes for Makhachev’s bout with Della Maddalena but also emphasizes Topuria’s confidence in his own standing should Makhachev falter.
The outcome of these upcoming fights will likely shape matchups and title contention scenarios, highlighting a pivotal moment in MMA where weight class movements and victory sequences influence future championship opportunities.