Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria are considered two of the best champions in UFC history. Despite their dominance, they frequently exchange words on social media, keeping fans entertained. While there has been speculation about a potential fight between them, nothing has been confirmed yet. However, UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently shared his opinion, stating that ‘El Matador’ should move up to 155 lbs.
Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has repeatedly shown interest in challenging Islam Makhachev for a second title, while Makhachev has hinted at moving up in weight. Now, Joe Rogan has reignited talks of Topuria making the jump to 155 lbs, calling it the fight to make it next. He compared the situation to Conor McGregor, who became a two-division champion in featherweight and lightweight before also competing at welterweight. Speaking on his UFC 312 Fight Companion podcast, Rogan said:
“As crazy as it sounds, I hope Ilia goes up to [155 pounds]. I really do,”“[Alexander] Volkanovski – Diego Lopes [at] 145, Ilia goes up to 55. I don’t care if he only defended the title one time or didn’t, who cares. Let’s go. Let’s f*cking go. It’d be nice but also who cares? Let’s go. Let’s f*cking go.”
Joe Rogan has called for Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria next 👀
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) February 10, 2025
“I hope Ilia goes up to 155. I don’t care if he only defended the title once. Let’s f*cking go!” pic.twitter.com/CdZjTtTJ3s
Rogan stated that it doesn’t matter if Topuria has few title defenses—he still wants to see him move up to 155 lbs. While he acknowledged it would be nice for Topuria to face more contenders at featherweight, he emphasized that a fight with Makhachev should take priority.
Islam Makhachev Vs. Ilia Topuria: Fight Preview
Islam Makhachev is on his way to becoming the GOAT of the lightweight division. He has already surpassed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s record for most title defenses and currently holds an impressive 27-1 record with a 15-fight win streak. Most recently, he submitted Renato Moicano in the first round at UFC 311.
Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria remains undefeated at featherweight with 16 wins, boasting knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway—becoming the first fighter to knock out Holloway.
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If a fight between Topuria and Makhachev gets confirmed, it could be one of the biggest matchups in UFC history, potentially breaking records.
Also Read: Ilia Topuria Makes Bold Claim Of Submitting Alexander Volkanovski In Their Rematch
