The debate over the Ilia Topuria UFC pound-for-pound ranking intensified as MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz argued that Islam Makhachev deserves to be recognized as the top pound-for-pound fighter, highlighting his impressive 15-fight winning streak. This discussion follows the recent ascension of Ilia Topuria to the No.1 position after his victory at UFC 317, adding tension to the ongoing conversation about the criteria for the sport’s highest honors.
Ranking Debate Sparks After Topuria’s Championship Win
Ilia Topuria, known as ‘El Matador,’ recently reached the pinnacle of UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings after capturing the vacant lightweight championship at UFC 317. While many fans and analysts believe Topuria has rightfully earned his current position, Ali Abdelaziz has publicly challenged this perspective, stating that Islam Makhachev’s long-standing record and finishing ability in recent fights should take precedence in the rankings.
Ali Abdelaziz expressed his viewpoint on social media by stating:
“Not taking anything away from Ilia, and he’s one of the best talents we have seen in a long time. I just think Islam’s 15 fight winning streak in the UFC and him finishing his 9 of his last 10 fights makes him the number 1 Pound for Pound fighter.” —Ali Abdelaziz, MMA Manager
Abdelaziz’s comments have underscored the ongoing divide in the MMA community regarding the significance of winning streaks compared to championship status in the pound-for-pound rankings discussion. The manager emphasized Makhachev’s achievements, especially his dominance in recent years, as a benchmark for excellence.
Chael Sonnen Offers Perspective on Topuria’s Rise
Adding a different angle to the conversation, UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen weighed in, offering support for Ilia Topuria’s claim to the top spot on the pound-for-pound list. In a recent online broadcast, Sonnen remarked that Topuria currently holds a championship title while Islam Makhachev does not, viewing this distinction as a crucial factor in evaluating their rankings.
“How do you take a sitting world champion and tell us that he is behind a guy that doesn’t have a belt?… The reality is paperwork, and nothing but paperwork has stopped Ilia Topuria from right this second, not a win, not a contest, not an extra punch thrown, nothing more than clerical, has stopped Ilia Topuria from right this moment from being your 145 champion, being your 155 champion, and being your reigning BMF champion.” —Chael Sonnen, UFC Hall of Famer
“Ilia Topuria should be standing with three belts. Which is one more than anybody else has… Islam is not the king of the division according to the rankings, Jack [Della Maddalena] is… How could you reasonably argue that in front of the sitting reigning world champion? The belt means something or it doesn’t.” —Chael Sonnen, UFC Hall of Famer
Sonnen’s assessment adds weight to the argument that current championship status is a decisive factor, pressing the question of whether historical achievements or ongoing reigns should matter more in these rankings.
Ongoing Debate and Its Impact on UFC Recognition
The difference in views between Ali Abdelaziz and Chael Sonnen highlights the conflict within the MMA community regarding how the UFC evaluates its pound-for-pound rankings. Islam Makhachev’s sustained performance and lengthy win streak set a high standard for contenders, while Ilia Topuria’s recent title win and champion status reflect the dynamic nature of mixed martial arts competition.
As the discussion continues, the debate is likely to influence future ranking decisions and may shape the narratives around both fighters’ legacies within the UFC. The spotlight remains firmly on Topuria, Makhachev, and those shaping the criteria that define greatness in the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Ilia Topuria Turkish?
A. Ilia Topuria was born on January 21, 1997. He is a professional mixed martial artist from Georgia and Spain. Topuria fights in the Lightweight category in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Right now, he holds the title of UFC Lightweight Champion.