Khabib Nurmagomedov celebrates Islam Makhachev 's victory at UFC 284. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
The idea of Islam Makhachev facing Ilia Topuria definitely doesn't appeal to members of the Dagestan Clan. Just like Javier Mendez, the athlete's main coach in the US, Khabib Nurmagomedov , former UFC lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) and close friend of the fighter, has stated that he doesn't look favorably on the possibility of a fight between the two.
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“If he moves up and beats someone like Dustin Poirier or Charles Oliveira, then he’ll be next in line, why not? Without fighting at 70,3 kg, I don’t agree. Because Islam already gave him a chance. Why does Islam have to give the featherweight champion three chances? It’s not fair to the lightweights. But if (Topuria) moves up and beats someone like Charles Oliveira, then of course,” Khabib stated in an interview with Henry Cejudo on the American podcast Pound 4 Pound.
It wouldn't be the first time Islam Makhachev defends his title against the champion of a lower weight class. In February 2023, the Russian made his first title defense against Alexander Volkanovski , who at the time held the featherweight title (up to 65,7 kg). After an intense fight, the Russian emerged victorious by unanimous decision.
Islam Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/@UFC
The two faced each other again in October of the same year, and once again the Dagestani achieved victory. This time, by knockout in the first round.
For Khabib, Topuria would beat Charles do Bronx
During the conversation, 'The Eagle' was asked how he imagined a matchup between the Georgian/Spanish fighter and Charles do Bronx . According to the Russian, Topuria would be the favorite.
“You know what I think? I think (Topuria) can beat him,” the former fighter summarized.
Khabib believes that if Ilia Topuria moves up to 155 and beats Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier , he deserves to fight Islam Makhachev next
“You know what I think. I think [Topuria] can beat [Charles].”
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