Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez of American Kickboxing Academy, has expressed strong approval of Ilia Topuria’s recent performances, highlighting his rise as a serious Ilia Topuria UFC title contender. Topuria, at just 28 years old, secured his second UFC belt by knocking out Max Holloway and then delivering a decisive victory over Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight championship. This belt became available after Makhachev vacated it to compete in the welterweight division.

Potential Showdown Between Makhachev and Topuria Gains Momentum

In a recent conversation with MMAJunkie’s Danny Segura on Habelmos MMA, Javier Mendez praised Topuria’s fighting style and marketability while signaling openness to a future bout between Makhachev and Topuria. Mendez emphasized the growing interest in a fight between the two and noted that such a matchup would be significant for Makhachev’s legacy.

I like what he’s been doing,

Mendez said.

He’s doing a good job at getting people to want to watch the fight. The more Ilia does, the more people want to see this fight. I like everything he’s doing as a fighter. He’s very strong and doesn’t care about the weight. I think now it’s a great fight for us. The first thing Islam wanted was a legacy fight – he wanted the welterweight title. Now if we win the welterweight title, we can go down or he can come up. That’s what I say, but if the UFC doesn’t like it, it’s not happening. But first we need to win.

—Javier Mendez, Head Coach, American Kickboxing Academy

Upcoming Plans for Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria

Islam Makhachev is projected to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight championship by the end of 2025, with speculation pointing towards a potential fight at Madison Square Garden in November. Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria faces several possible challengers for his lightweight title, including Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, and Paddy Pimblett. A rematch with Max Holloway remains unlikely for now, as Holloway is recovering from an injury sustained in his recent bout against Dustin Poirier.

Implications for the Featherweight and Lightweight Divisions

Ilia Topuria’s ascent and Makhachev’s pursuit of the welterweight crown suggest a dynamic future across UFC weight classes. If Makhachev secures the welterweight title, a crossover fight with Topuria could materialize, creating a high-stakes matchup fans have eagerly anticipated. Both fighters represent the new wave of dominant contenders aiming to cement their legacies in the UFC.