Coach criticizes Topuria's strategy in possible UFC fight against Makhachev: 'It would be crazy if…'

Javier Mendez, coach of Islam makhachev. Photo: Instagram / Javier Mendez

after winning Alexander Volkanovsky e Max Holloway in a devastating way, Ilia Topuria has established himself as one of the biggest names in the UFC featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg). In great form, 'El Matador' has shown interest in seeking his second belt in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). But to do so, he would have to win Islam makhachev. And the Russian's coach commented on the Spanish-Georgian's chances.

Javier Mendez told the 'Submission Radio' that it would not be wise for Topuria to try his luck on the ground with Islam and that the most important part of a fight is how you approach the strategy.

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“Can he compete with Islam on the ground or not? I would say no. The only person who has really done anything significant with him is Khabib. That would be an area where it would be foolish to want to compete, just like trading boxing for boxing, that’s not a smart move, you know? It would be the same as Ilia deciding to fight submissions with Islam, which wouldn’t be smart on his part either. So it all comes down to strategy, how you approach the fight, how your fighter positions himself and what mistakes you can correct during the fight. When the fight is made, it’s all about the game plan and the execution,” said the American Kickboxing Academy coach.

Praise for Ilia Topuria's boxing

Despite recognizing Topuria as a complete athlete, Mendez classified the fighter as impressive and his boxing as his main weapon.

“When he took Max down easily in the first round, I said, ‘This is how you fight MMA.’ And he has a very strong striking game. I think he’s probably the best boxer in the entire division. He’s very accurate and effective with his boxing, and you see how he uses that extremely well. He’s a complete fighter, but I think his boxing is his main attribute. He’s impressive, very impressive.” concluded the coach.

The lightweight champion and current pound-for-pound number one, Islam makhachev, won his belt at finish Charles do Bronx in the second round. In addition, the Russian defended his title three times, beating Volkanovski (twice) and Dustin poirier in his most recent fight.