Islam Makhachev Compares Ilia Topuria’s Technical Ability to Prime Conor McGregor
Islam Makhachev’s biggest potential opponent on the UFC roster is none other than the current lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria. The ‘El Matador’ has successfully established himself as one of the biggest pay-per-view stars through dominant performances.
Earlier this year, Topuria became a two-division champion after knocking out former lightweight king Charles Oliveira brutally. His rapid rise, confidence, and charisma have frequently drawn comparisons with legendary former UFC champion Conor McGregor. Both Topuria and McGregor share confident trash talking, psychological warfare, and fearless self-belief that intimidates opponents before fights.
The Spaniard has also been accused of copying McGregor’s tattoos, fashion choices, and expressive body language to build memorable, marketable superstar identities. Their outspoken personalities, media presence, and willingness to challenge champions create massive hype and crossover appeal worldwide among casual audiences.
Topuria and McGregor prefer striking heavy styles, chasing knockouts, entertaining fans, and finishing fights rather than safe decisions consistently inside. In a recent interview, Islam Makhachev was asked to compare the two fighters in their prime, and the Dagestani gave a rather interesting answer.
“I think when it comes to pure power, maybe Topuria has more. But as a counter-puncher, I think McGregor was better. His timing, how he waited… The way he met his opponents with his left hand, making them miss and countering. I think that was on another level,” said Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka.
Islam Makhachev witnessed Conor McGregor firsthand when the ‘Notorious’ fought Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229. McGregor was completely dominated by Nurmagomedov’s relentless wrestling, pressure, and ground control before getting submitted by the ‘Eagle.’
The fight famously ended in chaos, as a massive post-fight brawl erupted involving both teams and corner members. That rivalry remains palpable today, with McGregor often publicly betting against Islam Makhachev, now reigning welterweight champion.
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When is Islam Makhachev returning to the UFC Octagon?
It’s been only five weeks since Islam Makhachev fought Jack Della Maddalena to become the new UFC welterweight champion. The Dagestani made it look easy and plans to dominate the division, aiming to secure the most title defenses in welterweight history.
As expected, several top contenders are ready to get inside the Octagon with Makhachev. During the recent interview, the pound-for-pound king talked about his recent negotiation with the UFC top brass about his comeback.
“I definitely won’t fight in January. I think it will be after Ramadan for sure. They didn’t tell me the name, but honestly, I think it was Michael Morales. They didn’t say the name. They just asked whether I would fight in January or not. I don’t think [it was Kamaru Usman]… I don’t know for sure, and neither does my manager,” Islam Makhachev continued.
Makhachev believes his fight vs. former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman is the biggest fight to make, but there are several doubts. Many fans and experts believe that the ‘Nigerian Nightmare’ is past his prime, and young contenders should get the chance instead. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see how the UFC manages through these complicated dynamics.
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