Islam Makhachev Rules Out Lightweight Clash With Ilia Topuria: “Not Interested”
The rivalry between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria has been brewing for quite some time, fueled by their respective dominance. It all began when the Spaniard moved up to challenge for the lightweight title, sparking fan excitement worldwide. Meanwhile, Makhachev shifted his focus toward achieving his welterweight dream, momentarily pausing hopes of their much-anticipated superfight from becoming a reality.
Despite that, both fighters have repeatedly discussed the potential matchup, keeping fans engaged and hopeful about witnessing this explosive clash someday. After Makhachev vacated the lightweight title, Topuria captured the belt by defeating Charles Oliveira and topped the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. Although several lightweight contenders have challenged him, Topuria firmly believes a potential showdown against Makhachev would be the biggest and most lucrative fight possible.
In a recent interview, Islam Makhachev was asked about coming back to the lightweight division to fight Topuria. The Dagestani was quick to respond and mentioned how it doesn’t necessarily interest him to go through that weight cut again. “How could it be interesting to me? What will I gain by going down to 155 and beating Topuria? The fans are mostly interested in it. I’m not interested in cutting weight to 155 and torturing myself again,” Islam Makhachev via Match TV.
Following Makhachev’s decision to move up to the welterweight division, many fans and analysts accused him of ducking Topuria’s challenge. However, Makhachev and his team explained that cutting down to lightweight had become difficult, making welterweight a more logical long-term option. Currently, Makhachev is preparing intensely for his welterweight title fight against Jack Della Maddalena, showcasing significant muscle growth and size improvements.
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Can Islam Makhachev surpass his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy?
With his move to the welterweight division, Islam Makhachev seeks to make history as a two-division UFC champion and silence doubters. Unlike his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, who remained dominant at lightweight, Makhachev’s decision to move up reflects his hunger to test greater challenges. Experts have often debated Khabib’s legacy for not attempting a second division, which adds more weight to Makhachev’s bold pursuit.
Having already surpassed Khabib’s three lightweight title defenses, Makhachev has proven his consistency, evolution, and ability to handle immense championship pressure. With sharper striking and elite grappling, Makhachev is a more complete and exciting fighter than his legendary mentor. In conclusion, if Makhachev captures the welterweight title, he won’t just match Nurmagomedov’s greatness; he could surpass it entirely.
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