Makhachev's manager downplays importance of Charles do Bronx vs. Ilia Topuria duel at UFC 317

Ali Abdelaziz says Islam remains the true lightweight champion even after vacating the belt

Ali (right) shot McGregor (Photo: Reproduction/Instagram AliAbdelaziz

Recently, Islam makhachev made the decision to abandon the lightweight champion title (up to 70,2 kg) and make history by becoming the first Russian with two UFC belts, by moving up to the welterweight division (up to 77 kg). The decision by Khabib's pupil opened the way for Charles of the Bronx e Ilia Topuria compete for the vacant title in the main fight of the UFC 317. However, Ali Abdelaziz, the Dagestani's manager, still sees his client as a king without a throne.

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In a post on 'X' (formerly Twitter), Abdelaziz downplayed the importance of the fight between Charles of the Bronx e Ilia Topuria for the lightweight belt and stated that Islam will continue to be the true champion of the category, regardless of having vacated the belt.

PUBLICITY:

“I really wasn’t going to say much, but I see that people just don’t want to move on. The Islam makhachev will always be the lightweight champion. These two guys who are going to fight are fighting for the Burger King belt. I wish people would be nicer to each other, but that's it," wrote Ali Abdelaziz.

PUBLICITY:

Who is Ali Abdelaziz?

Retired from MMA with one win and three losses in his career, Ali Abdelaziz stands out for what he does outside the cage. Head of the agency 'Dominance MMA', he manages several athletes from the UFC roster, including: Islam makhachev, Magomed Ankalayev, Kamaru Usman, Justin gaethje, Henry Cejudo, Gilbert Durinho, Among others.

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