Ilia Topuria is one of the greatest featherweight champions in history. However, his ambitions align with those of Alexander Volkanovski, who also faced Islam Makhachev but fell short twice. Unlike Volkanovski, Topuria has repeatedly mocked the Russian fighter on social media, confidently stating that he is a far superior fighter to Makhachev.
Topuria is determined to become a two-division champion and has been outspoken about his ambition to capture the lightweight title. While he acknowledges that if he remains in the featherweight division, Alexander Volkanovski is the most deserving challenger and has earned a rematch, his primary focus is elsewhere. Rather than facing Volkanovski again, Topuria is aiming for a champion vs. champion showdown with Islam Makhachev.
“Me personally, what I want to do is move up to 155 because I know by fact that I can become a two-weight world champion. Islam, he’s a great fighter; he’s the No. 1 pound-for-pound for the people. For me, it’s me. I’m the best fighter in the world, so I know I can do with him whatever I want to do because I know I’m much better than him,” Topuria told Fox Sports Australia about a potential fight with Makhachev.
Ilia Topuria still wants a piece of Islam Makhachev 👀
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) February 8, 2025
Full story ➡️ https://t.co/JhcsIY0jFH pic.twitter.com/alj0DTecSK
However, ‘El Matador’ also mentioned that he represents the new generation of MMA and brings a style that Volkanovski isn’t used to. Confident in his superiority, Topuria even suggests that instead of knocking Volkanovski out like last time, he might submit him just to switch things up.
Dustin Poirier Believes Ilia Topuria’s Power Makes Him Dangerous Across Divisions
Dustin Poirier believes Topuria is a rare knockout artist with power that transcends weight classes. He recently praised the undefeated featherweight champ, claiming he could finish anyone from 145 to 170 pounds. c. Now, as he sets his sights on the lightweight division, Poirier’s words only add to the growing hype.
“There are still guys for Topuria at 145 to fight…But that being said, Topuria is an assassin. I believe he can knock out everybody from 145 pounds to 170 pounds,” Poirier said.
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👀💪Dustin Poirier talks on Ilia Topuria:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) February 7, 2025
"Topuria is assassin. I believe he can knock out everybody from 145 pound to 170 pounds."
🎥 @TheSchmo312 ▫️ pic.twitter.com/Z47Ata6YVM
‘El Matador’ was also in the running for Fighter of the Year, but the honor ultimately went to Alex Pereira. However, with his rapid rise and dominant performances, Topuria could have a strong chance of claiming the award in 2025.
