Ilia Topuria recently suggested the possibility of following in Conor McGregor 's footsteps and changing weight classes in the UFC. The featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg) stated that he was willing to relinquish his title and move up to the lightweight division (up to 70 kg), exactly as the Irishman did. Former champion Michael Bisping drew a parallel between the paths taken by UFC stars.
On his YouTube channel, Bisping compared Topuria and McGregor's UFC careers, highlighting the similarities between the two. The Brit noted that the current featherweight champion's style, confidence and even his tattoos are reminiscent of McGregor, suggesting that Topuria may be following a similar path.
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“As we know, Ilia Topuria was inspired by Conor McGregor , and they have a lot in common. Undefeated in the UFC featherweight division, his popularity skyrocketed, he knocked out everyone except one person, Josh Emmett , and in McGregor's case, Max Holloway . Everyone else fell. Ilia Topuria 's confidence has been sky-high, just like McGregor's. Even in their tattoos, the way they warm up and things like that. … Besides, Conor never defended the featherweight belt, and it seems that maybe Topuria is trying to do the same. Move up to lightweight, forget the featherweights, because he's already, 'been there, done that, got the shirt,'” said Bisping.
Despite announcing the change in weight class, Topuria issued a statement clarifying that he has not yet made a final decision. However, the Georgian has no shortage of options in his current division. Alexander Volkanovski awaits him for a rematch, and Brazilian Diego Lopes , as well as the undefeated Movsar Evloev , are also in line for a title shot.
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