In combat sports, there is a common phrase that goes “to be the best, you have to beat the best”. This statement holds true especially when it comes to settling the question of who is the superior fighter in a matter of twenty-five minutes inside the octagon. This is precisely why Ilia Topuria, a fighter newly shifted to the featherweight division, is eagerly looking forward to facing the ultimate lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. With the latter being recognized as the pound-for-pound king, this fight could potentially cement Topuria’s position as one of the best fighters in the world. And Topuria has someone in his corner who believes he has what it takes to beat Makhachev – Dana White’s welterweight GOAT, Kamaru Usman.
It is no secret that Islam Makhachev is a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. The Russian fighter has been on an impressive seven-fight winning streak in the UFC and has often been compared to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. With his dominating grappling skills, Makhachev has been able to take down one opponent after another, cementing his position as the division’s champion.
However, Topuria’s recent performances have caught the attention of many UFC fans and experts alike. A native of the Canary Islands, Topuria has a perfect record of 11-0, with three of those wins coming in the UFC. He has quickly risen through the ranks and has proven to be a formidable opponent with his well-rounded skill set and aggressive fighting style.
In a recent interview, UFC President Dana White was asked about the potential lightweight title shot for Topuria against Makhachev. To the surprise of many, White said, “Islam needs a new face, and I think Ilia Topuria could be that new face.”
This endorsement from the UFC’s welterweight GOAT speaks volumes about Topuria’s potential and his chances against Makhachev. White’s statement also highlights the need for new challengers to step up and take on the dominant champion. And Topuria seems to fit the bill perfectly.
As he prepares for his upcoming fight against Ryan Hall at UFC 264, Topuria is already looking ahead to his potential title shot. In a recent interview, he expressed his desire to face Makhachev, saying, “I hope I can get Islam Makhachev after this fight. I feel like I have what it takes to beat him.”
Topuria’s confidence in himself is commendable, and it is backed by his impressive performances inside the octagon. His ability to adapt to different opponents and situations has been evident in his past fights. And a potential fight against Makhachev will undoubtedly bring out the best in Topuria, as he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills against the division’s best.
Moreover, a fight between Topuria and Makhachev would also be an exciting clash of styles. While Makhachev relies on his grappling skills, Topuria is known for his knockout power and relentless pressure. It would be a classic case of striker vs. grappler, with both fighters having the potential to end the fight at any moment.
In addition to his skills inside the octagon, Topuria also has the support of his team and country behind him. The UFC’s rising star has already become a national hero in Spain, and a title shot against Makhachev would bring the entire nation together to support their fighter.
In conclusion, it is clear that Ilia Topuria has all the makings of a star in the UFC. His impressive record, well-rounded skill set, and the backing of Dana White and Kamaru Usman make him a formidable opponent for anyone in the lightweight division. And with a potential title shot against Islam Makhachev on the horizon, Topuria has all the motivation he needs to continue his rise to the top. Only time will tell if he can truly be the best by beating the best.
