Islam Makhachev's coach makes bold prediction about Ilia Topuria vs. Charles do Bronx fight, check it out

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

After the announcement of the duel between Charles do Bronx and Ilia Topuria for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg) as the main fight of the UFC 317, several MMA personalities have been questioning how the fight might unfold. For Javier Mendez, head coach of Islam makhachev In the United States, although both are very skilled and dangerous athletes, there is a clear favorite.

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In an interview with 'MMAWeekly' this Friday (16), the coach addressed the marriage of styles between the two fighters and concluded that the Georgian/Spanish should become the new champion in the category previously dominated by Islam makhachev.

“If someone gave me 100 grand… If you asked me who I would like to win, I would bet on Charles. That’s who I would like, but if you gave me 100 grand to win 100 grand… I would bet on Ilia. He feels like he can’t be beaten. It’s basically because Charles is going to stand up straight. When he (Topuria) comes in, he’s going to use that boxing and his head is going to be up. And Ilia has a very good way of connecting with the chin at close range,” said the coach.

While the Brazilian comes from a victory against Michael chandler No. UFC 309, Topuria is undefeated as a professional. In his last appearance, El Matador became the first to knock out Max Holloway when defending the featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg).

Ilia Topuria is the only fighter to knock out Max Holloway. Photo: Reproduction/ Instagram UFC

Besides Makhachev, Javier Mendez is one of the best coaches in the world

Islam makhachev e Renato Moicano speak in the Octagon after the lightweight title fight at #UFC311.

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- UFC Brazil (@UFCBrasil) January 19, 2025

In addition to being the main voice in Makhachev's corner, Javier Mendez also influenced the careers of several great names in the history of MMA. Leader of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), he brought names such as Daniel Cormier, Cain Velazquez, Luke Rockhold e Khabib Nurmagomedov to the top of their respective weight classes in the Ultimate.