Ilia Topuria has allegedly claimed that a member of Team Khabib Nurmagomedov is using steroids. The conflict started when Topuria sparked a feud with Islam Makhachev, fueled by the featherweight champion’s belief that he could defeat Makhachev. In response, Usman Nurmagomedov defended Makhachev, but the situation quickly turned into a heated back-and-forth between Topuria and a member of Khabib’s camp.
During a live Instagram session, Ilia Topuria didn’t shy away from stating that he was ready to take on Islam Makhachev in the octagon. While he acknowledged Makhachev’s impressive fighting skills, Topuria joked that a street fight wasn’t an option because he’d have to “pay for his medical bills.”
Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov quickly backed his teammate, responding, “When did you ever fight on the street, European?” Topuria then fired back on X, referencing Nurmagomedov’s failed drug test after Bellator 300. ‘El Matador’ wrote,
“It has been a long time, to be honest. How are you doing with drugs? Are you still on steroids?”
The reigning featherweight champion is set to take on Max Holloway at UFC 308. However, even before this showdown, Topuria is already discussing the next major fight he’s aiming for.
After his fight with Max Holloway, could Ilia Topuria face Islam Makhachev next?
Topuria is set to face Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 308 on October 26 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. However, Makhachev emphasized that Topuria needs to pass a significant test before he considers him a worthy contender. The lightweight champion acknowledged Topuria’s boxing skills but shared his thoughts on the upcoming match. In an interview, Makhachev stated,
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“He is good, but his next opponent is Max Holloway. If he beats Max [and] if he beats Movsar Evloev [he can potentially fight for the lightweight championship]… He has a big job to do in his division.”
Everyone is now focused on Topuria’s upcoming fight with Holloway. If he secures a victory, many will view him as a potential challenger for the lightweight title. However, it’s unclear what the future holds for Topuria—whether he will remain in his current division or make the move up.
Also Read: “Max Is F**ked”- Fans Concerned For Max Holloway After Ilia Topuria Drops New Training Footage
