Georgian–Spanish fighter Ilia Topuria is rapidly climbing the ranks of the UFC, making a name for himself with impressive knockout performances and victories in multiple weight classes. Former UFC welterweight Jorge Masvidal recently shared his thoughts on Topuria’s ambition to become the first fighter in UFC history to win titles in three different divisions, highlighting the magnitude of such a feat.
Topuria initially drew widespread attention when he knocked out the long-reigning featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski to claim the title at UFC 298. He further cemented his status by becoming the first to stop Max Holloway by knockout before relinquishing the featherweight belt. After shifting to lightweight, Topuria delivered a knockout victory over former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, securing championships in two weight classes and achieving one of the sport’s most remarkable three-fight win streaks. Before moving up, Topuria publicly expressed his desire to challenge Islam Makhachev, who was then lightweight champion.
However, Islam Makhachev has since moved to the welterweight division, where he recently won the title by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 with a dominant wrestling display. Despite Makhachev’s shift, Topuria has maintained his goal of becoming a three-division champion, including the welterweight belt, a challenge Masvidal has weighed in on considering the contrasting fighting styles and the difficulty involved in taking on Makhachev.
Masvidal Highlights the Challenge of Topuria’s Path to Welterweight Glory
Jorge Masvidal, who has trained with Topuria and witnessed his power firsthand, remarked on the extraordinary nature of Topuria’s career and the historic challenge ahead if he seeks a third UFC belt at welterweight. Masvidal pointed out that no fighter has ever managed to hold titles in three weight divisions and stated that if Topuria succeeds, he would surpass legends like Jon Jones and Georges St-Pierre, placing him in a league of his own.
No one’s ever won three belts. It’s a very uphill battle for Ilia to go to 170 and beat Makhachev. If Ilia does that, he’s above everybody – Jon Jones, GSP – like you’ve got to put him in his own category of greatness. When you fight Volkanovski in his prime and you end him, you fight Max in his prime and end him, and then you go up and end Charles Oliveira, it’s like, who’s this mythological figure?
Jorge Masvidal via Death Row MMA
Masvidal also emphasized the difficulty Topuria would face in matching Makhachev’s wrestling dominance, noting the stylistic contrast as a major hurdle. While Topuria is primarily a striker with fewer fights against elite wrestlers, Makhachev is known for his relentless grappling and ability to control top-tier opponents.
Now you’re talking about he’s gonna go to 170 and beat the No. 1 pound-for-pound guy who is just crushing everybody. He takes the biggest names to the black hole and submits them. The complete opposite fighter to beat a guy like Ilia is Makhachev – that’s the type of guy you need to beat Ilia.
Jorge Masvidal via Death Row MMA
This contrast defines the potential matchup between Topuria and Makhachev, which remains a subject of widespread interest, though it is viewed as a long-term prospect rather than an immediate contest.
Topuria’s Career Trajectory and Upcoming Challenges
Topuria’s journey in the UFC has been distinguished by rapid success and striking power comparable to that of a welterweight contender, as attested by Masvidal. His knockout win over Charles Oliveira showcased his ability to compete and win at the highest levels across divisions. Despite the rivalry narratives linking him with Makhachev, both fighters currently face pressing commitments within their respective categories. Topuria is slated to face interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, while Makhachev now leads a deep and competitive welterweight roster.
Masvidal’s comments frame the possibility of a third-division title challenge as a monumental milestone for Topuria’s legacy, though achieving it will require overcoming significant obstacles inherent in facing the reigning welterweight champion and adapting to a new weight class’s demands.
The Status of Jorge Masvidal’s UFC Return and the White House Event
Jorge Masvidal, once a top contender in the welterweight division, last competed in the UFC in 2022. Following his mixed martial arts career, Masvidal ventured into professional boxing but suffered a loss to Nate Diaz. Despite this setback, Masvidal has expressed interest in returning to the UFC, specifically eyeing the upcoming June 2026 UFC White House event as a potential platform for a comeback.
Speculation around a high-profile bout between Masvidal and Conor McGregor has circulated publicly, fueled by both fighters showing enthusiasm for competing in the unique setting of the White House event. However, UFC president Dana White has dismissed these rumors, suggesting that such a matchup is not being seriously considered at this time.
I didn’t hear that. You know what’s funny? In my algorithm on Instagram I have nothing MMA, literally nothing MMA pops up… There’s some politics but I don’t listen to any of the goofy s**t that goes on.
Dana White via TMZ Sports
The fight card for the UFC White House occasion remains unconfirmed with no official matchups announced as of late February 2026. Meanwhile, Masvidal’s return is complicated by factors such as his contract status and recent inactivity. Dana White’s comments further reduce the immediate likelihood of Masvidal re-entering the Octagon, especially against McGregor in the near term.
Broader Context and Implications in the UFC Landscape
Ilia Topuria’s rapid rise and ambition to make UFC history by becoming the first fighter to hold three division titles underscores the evolving competitive landscape of the organization. Should he succeed, he would join a rare echelon of fighters who have dominated across weight classes, reshaping discussions about legacy and greatness in MMA. Meanwhile, the welterweight division under Islam Makhachev’s leadership continues to pose a difficult challenge for any contender aiming to disrupt the hierarchy.
Jorge Masvidal’s perspective adds valuable insight into the technical and physical challenges involved in such an endeavor, helping frame the significance of Topuria’s goals within the sport’s historical context. For fans and fighters alike, the possibility of a three-division champion raised by Masvidal highlights an exciting narrative for the future of the UFC.
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