Ilia Topuria is the lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/UFC
UFC lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) and leader of the Ultimate pound-for-pound ranking, Ilia Topuria has already declared on several occasions the desire to measure forces with Islam makhachev. However, another member of the Dagestan Clan decided to address the Georgian/Spanish situation. Usman Nurmagomedov, Khabib's cousin and PFL lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg.) questioned El Matador's status as the best in the world.
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In an interview with the website 'MMA Fighting' this Wednesday (3), the fighter downplayed the recognition given to Topuria by the media and fans, in addition to citing the few experiences lived by the Georgian/Spanish in the category.
"As Ilia Topuria "Can he be the number one lightweight in the world? He's only had one fight. How many fights does he have? 14? I have 14 quick wins in my entire career," said Nurmagomedov, who is undefeated in 19 professional fights and will face the Irishman. Paul Hughes in a rematch on October 3rd.
Usman Nurmagomedov claims he has a better summary than Ilia Topuria:
“How can Ilia Topuria be number one lightweight in the world, he's only had one fight – how many fights does he have? 14? I have 14 finishes in my career.”
(via @mmafighting) pic.twitter.com/ekYS6YaZIt
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 3, 2025
The Russian won by unanimous decision in their first fight, held in January of this year. Despite the victory, the decision was criticized by many fans around the world. Regarding the rematch, he assured that he will perform better in the next match.
For Usman, Makhachev will win the welterweight belt
Islam makhachev (left) poses next to Usman Nurmagomedov (dir.). Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
When asked about the duel between Islam makhachev e Jack Della Maddalena, valid for the welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg) in UFC 322Nurmagomedov asserted that the complexity of his training partner's game makes him the favorite.
"I think he'll be the welterweight champion. Because he has everything. I think his skills are better than Maddalena's, because Maddalena only has boxing. But Islam, if he takes you down, will hold you for the entire round, while Belal (Muhammad) has a problem with that. He let Maddalena get up. He let him get up, and then tried again. When Islam holds you, it's over. We'll see. Of course, it won't be easy for Islam. Because this is a different weight class, but mentally, Islam is a very strong guy," he concluded.
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