Becoming a two-division champion has become a common goal for many UFC fighters today. Stars like Islam Makhachev and Sean O’Malley have frequently expressed their desire to achieve double gold. Ilia Topuria is another fighter with similar aspirations, consistently showing interest in becoming a two-division champion. However, Topuria has faced significant criticism for his ambitions. Recently, Conor McGregor took a shot at ‘El Matador’ and his dreams of holding titles in two weight classes.
The tension between Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria continues to grow, with McGregor recently taking another jab at ‘El Matador.’ Reflecting on his own career, McGregor responded to a post about his iconic first fight against Nate Diaz, highlighting his quick jump from featherweight to welterweight.
That fight, followed by McGregor’s lightweight debut where he defeated Eddie Alvarez to become the first-ever two-division champion in UFC history, cemented McGregor’s legacy. Comparing his bold moves to Topuria’s ambitions, McGregor dismissed the idea of Topuria taking on a top welterweight fighter, saying, “Never, he has the balls of a kitten.”
Never, he has the balls of a kitten. https://t.co/2v3XVXRJet
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) December 20, 2024
The featherweight champion has yet to respond to McGregor’s comments. If Topuria decides to reply, fans could witness a heated online rivalry unfold. As for the speculation about moving up in weight, Topuria has already dismissed all such rumors, staying focused on his current division.
Ilia Topuria Denies Lightweight Move Rumors
Topuria has clarified his future plans amid growing speculation about a move to lightweight. Speaking through his coach, Jorge Climent, it was revealed that the featherweight champion aims to pursue a second title, potentially returning in May against Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier. Despite these ambitions, Topuria has firmly denied rumors of vacating his featherweight belt. Taking to X, he stated:
“I will not leave the title vacant. The decision to move up to the next category is entirely mine. I haven’t had any conversations with the UFC yet, so everything is still to be decided. Stop celebrating because I’m not going anywhere.”
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I will not leave the title vacant. The decision to move up to the next category is entirely mine. I haven't had any conversations with the UFC yet, so everything is still to be decided. Stop celebrating because I’m not going anywhere. I have conquered my division and I will do…
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) December 12, 2024
The featherweight champion also emphasized that he has dominated his division and plans to do the same in the next one. This makes it clear that, for now, he has no intention of vacating his title. Fans will be eagerly awaiting Topuria’s next move in the division.
Also Read: Conor McGregor Celebrates Ninth Anniversary Of His Historic Win Over Jose Aldo As ”McGregor Day”
