Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, anticipates a fight with Ilia Topuria will occur in the near future but insists on specific conditions before it happens. After capturing the welterweight title by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November, Makhachev is now setting the stage for his first title defense.
Having achieved his goal of becoming a two-division world champion, Makhachev is aiming for a high-profile clash with lightweight titleholder Ilia Topuria. Although Topuria is currently on a break from competition, he secured the vacant UFC lightweight belt—previously held by Makhachev—by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 last June.
Makhachev Insists Fight Take Place at Welterweight Division
In an interview with Match TV, Makhachev clarified that any encounter between him and Topuria must occur at welterweight, emphasizing he will not return to lightweight for the fight.
If Ilia wants to move up, then welcome. He can because he has nothing to lose by moving up,
Makhachev said about Topuria.
If he loses, he goes back down to lightweight, and that’s it. He’ll defend his belt there. I’ve already been the lightweight champion, and I’m definitely not going back down to 155 pounds.
Topuria has hinted at moving up to welterweight for the chance to become the UFC’s first-ever three-division champion. The two fighters have exchanged heated remarks on social media, with Topuria vowing to knock out Makhachev should they meet inside the Octagon.
Topuria’s Upcoming Decision and the Ongoing Rivalry
Before this anticipated showdown can happen, Topuria must decide whether to remain at lightweight and defend his title or relinquish it to challenge Makhachev at 170 pounds. Meanwhile, their verbal sparring continues to build anticipation among fans, keeping the spotlight on both competitors as two of the UFC’s rising stars.
This potential matchup carries significance not only for the fighters’ legacies but also for UFC history, as it paves the way for a rare opportunity to crown a three-division champion, setting a new benchmark in the sport’s landscape.
