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Tag: Ilia Topuria

  • ‘Ilia Topuria Beats Islam Makhachev’: Top-Ranked UFC Star Makes Shock Prediction For Superfight At 155

    ‘Ilia Topuria Beats Islam Makhachev’: Top-Ranked UFC Star Makes Shock Prediction For Superfight At 155

    A top UFC bantamweight contender believes Ilia Topuria would hold the stylistic upper hand in a potential lightweight clash against Islam Makhachev.

    Topuria relinquished his UFC featherweight crown in February in an effort to secure an immediate superfight with reigning lightweight champion Makhachev, aiming to etch his name in history as a two-division titleholder. However, the Dagestani offered a lukewarm response to the proposed superfight.

    Instead, Makhachev is set to vacate his 155-pound belt as he shifts his focus to the welterweight division, where he plans to challenge current champion Jack Della Maddalena later this year. With the lightweight strap now up for grabs, “El Matador” is slated to square off against former champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant title in the headlining bout of UFC 317, scheduled for June 28.

    Although Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev appear to be headed down vastly different career trajectories, with little likelihood of their paths crossing inside the Octagon anytime soon, one former UFC interim bantamweight title challenger believes that if the stars were to align, the undefeated Spaniard has owns the style and sharpness to edge out a win.

    Former UFC featherweight Ilia Topuria.

    Cory Sandhagen Claims Ilia Topuria Has Tools To Trouble Islam Makhachev

    During a recent appearance on the Overdogs Podcast, Cory Sandhagen weighed in on a potential lightweight bout between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev. “Sandman” acknowledged Makhachev’s status as one of the sport’s premier grapplers but suggested that the former UFC featherweight champion’s elite takedown defense and striking prowess could tip the balance in his favor.

    “If Ilia and Islam fight at 155, I honestly think Ilia would win that fight,” Sandhagen said. “His stature is going to be hard to take down for Islam, and if those two are standing, I just think Ilia is a way, way more dangerous guy standing. I can’t really see Islam hurting him because his guard is real good.”

    “El Matador” was last seen in action at UFC 308 in October, where he successfully defended his featherweight title with a third-round knockout of former champion Max Holloway. Meanwhile, Makhachev’s latest outing came at UFC 311 in January, where he successfully defended his lightweight belt with a first-round submission victory over Renato Moicano. 

    Dustin Poirier Backs Ilia Topuria For Immediate Lightweight Title Shot Against Islam Makhachev
    Images: @iliatopuria/@islam_makhachev/Instagram
  • Topuria Brothers Split from Longtime Coaches Jorge and Agustín Climent

    Topuria Brothers Split from Longtime Coaches Jorge and Agustín Climent

    Ilia and Aleksandre Topuria have officially ended their professional relationship with Jorge and Agustín Climent, marking the conclusion of a long-standing training partnership in MMA.

    As confirmed by MARCA, the decision comes as both parties now live in different cities and face growing professional obligations that prevent them from maintaining the same level of collaboration. The Topuria brothers extended their gratitude for the years of shared growth and learning, wishing the Climents well in their future endeavors.

    Ilia Topuria, who moved from Alicante to Madrid several months ago to be closer to his athletic and commercial commitments, has already begun shaping a new team ahead of UFC 317 and his upcoming bout against Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title in Las Vegas on June 28.

    The updated training camp includes familiar faces within Topuria’s circle: his brother Aleksandre, Javi Climent (unrelated to the Climent brothers), Jesús Gallo, Doctor Aldo, Fran Ortega, Raúl Valdesuso, Doctor David Beneito, Mathias Ribeiro, and Mani Tavanaei.

    According to reports, the Climent brothers also confirmed the split, expressing mutual respect and appreciation toward Ilia and Aleksandre after their 13-year working relationship.

  • Ilia Topuria Issues First Words After UFC 317 Main Event Announcement: ‘My Apologies In Advance’

    Ilia Topuria Issues First Words After UFC 317 Main Event Announcement: ‘My Apologies In Advance’

    Ilia Topuria is brimming with confidence ahead of his permanent move to the UFC lightweight division.

    Topuria willingly vacated his UFC featherweight title in February, setting his sights on an immediate superfight with reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev in pursuit of two-division glory.

    However, Makhachev’s team remained largely dismissive of the idea of facing the undefeated Spaniard, prompting the UFC to pivot and pursue alternative paths. On Tuesday, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that the Dagestani has officially relinquished the 155-pound crown as he eyes a potential clash with newly minted welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena.

    As a result, “El Matador” will now face former champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title in the UFC 317 main event, set for June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas during International Fight Week.

    Ilia Topuria Throws Shade At Charles Oliveira And Islam Makhachev

    After the announcement of his UFC 317 showdown, Ilia Topuria took to social media, confidently declaring that he would defeat Charles Oliveira and fulfill his dream of becoming a two-division champion. In his post, “El Matador” also threw a sly jab at Islam Makhachev, suggesting the Dagestani vacated the lightweight division out of fear of facing him.

    “On June 28, another dream will come true. I’ll be the champion of the lightweight division. Charles, my apologies in advance… I’m just fighting for my dreams. It’s unfortunate that Makhachev ran away. 17-0,” Ilia Topuria wrote on X.

    Topuria claimed the 145-pound title with a knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024. He then solidified his reign with a dominant knockout win over Max Holloway at UFC 308 in October, successfully defending his belt.

    “El Matador” boasts an unbeaten 8-0 record in the UFC and an impressive 16-0 overall, with eight of those victories coming by knockout and six by submission.

    UFC 317
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_XOsAPgWVCE
  • Ilia Topuria To Headline UFC 317 Against Charles Oliveira For Vacant Lightweight Belt

    Ilia Topuria To Headline UFC 317 Against Charles Oliveira For Vacant Lightweight Belt

    After much anticipation, UFC 317 has its main event locked in.

    UFC 317

    On Tuesday, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that Ilia Topuria will square off against Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title in the main event of UFC 317 on June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, capping off the promotion’s annual International Fight Week.

    The UFC lightweight throne is now vacant as reigning champion Islam Makhachev sets his sights on welterweight gold, targeting a high-profile clash with newly crowned titleholder Jack Della Maddalena, with their potential showdown expected to take place later this year.

    Topuria vacated his featherweight title ahead of UFC 314 to make a permanent move up to lightweight, with the goal of becoming a two-division champion. “El Matador” last graced the Octagon at UFC 308 in October, where he delivered a stunning knockout victory over Max Holloway, further extending his undefeated promotional record to 8-0.

    Meanwhile, Oliveira will be pursuing the undisputed 155-pound title for the third time, riding high on a dominant unanimous decision victory over Michael Chandler in their November rematch at UFC 309. “Do Bronx” claimed the lightweight crown at UFC 262 with a dominant win over Chandler. The Brazilian then successfully defended his title against Dustin Poirier at UFC 269.

    However, after missing weight for his second defense, the Brazilian was stripped of the belt, only to bounce back with a submission victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 274. Oliveira had another shot at the vacant title at UFC 280, but was soundly outclassed by Makhachev.

  • Ilia Topuria Confirms Bombshell Return Announcement For UFC 317

    Ilia Topuria Confirms Bombshell Return Announcement For UFC 317

    Ilia Topuria finally has a date circled on the calendar for his long-awaited return to the Octagon.

    Topuria has been itching to get back into action ever since voluntarily relinquishing the UFC Featherweight Championship in February, aiming to fast-track a showdown with reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev.

    But despite his ambitions, Makhachev’s camp has shown little to no interest in entertaining a title shot for the undefeated Spaniard—at least not in the immediate future.

    Last month, reports surfaced suggesting that “La Leyenda” could be in line for a lightweight title opportunity —either against Makhachev or for a vacant belt, with June as a potential target. The buzz intensified when Topuria took to social media, revealing that he had already kicked off training camp in preparation for the highly anticipated bout.

    On Friday, Topuria officially confirmed his next fight will take place at UFC 317 on June 28, as part of UFC International Fight Week at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada—though he left fans guessing by not yet revealing his opponent.

    The former UFC Featherweight Champion dropped the announcement through Spanish media shortly after receiving the prestigious Grand Cross of the Order of the Second of May from the Community of Madrid.

    “I would like to thank the Community of Madrid and its president for this recognition by the Grand Cross of the Order Dos de Mayo,” Ilia Topuria said. “I am very sorry for not being able to be there with you. But I’ve got training ahead of me, and I hope to make you all happy again on June 28.”

    “La Leyenda” was last seen at UFC 308 in October, where he delivered a stunning knockout of Max Holloway in his first title defense. That dominant performance followed his breakout showing at UFC 298 in February 2024, where he dethroned Alexander Volkanovski to capture the UFC Featherweight title.

    Ilia Topuria remains unbeaten in the UFC, boasting a flawless 8-0 record, with six of those victories coming by way of finish.

  • Ilia Topuria To Fight For Lightweight Title At UFC 317, With Or Without Islam Makhachev

    Ilia Topuria To Fight For Lightweight Title At UFC 317, With Or Without Islam Makhachev

    It would seem that former UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has gotten his wish for an immediate shot at adding lightweight gold to his trophy collection.

    Topuria has set his sights on achieving two-division glory after choosing to vacate the 145-pound title this year following just one defense. “La Leyenda” went 2-0 in 2024, dethroning Alexander Volkanovski before becoming the first to knock out Max Holloway.

    Due to an apparent struggle to make the weight limit, the Spaniard will move forward as a 155-pounder. And given his success below, Topuria has been expecting a showdown with Islam Makhachev straight away.

    Whether that’s the matchup or not remains to be seen, but a report from Spanish journalist Álvaro Colmenero does place Topuria as one half of the next lightweight title fight.

    According to Colmenero, the ex-featherweight kingpin will compete either against Makhachev or for a vacant belt at UFC 317 during International Fight Week this June.

    Previous speculation has suggested that Makhachev is awaiting the result of the UFC 315 headliner between his frequent training partner Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena before deciding on a possible move up to welterweight.

  • Ilia Topuria Explains Why He’s A Fan Of Volkanovski & Holloway, But Not Yair Rodriguez

    Ilia Topuria Explains Why He’s A Fan Of Volkanovski & Holloway, But Not Yair Rodriguez

    When looking back at the UFC division he formerly competed in and ruled over, Ilia Topuria isn’t a fan of one top contender.

    Topuria recently vacated the featherweight gold ahead of a permanent move up to the lightweight class this year. The decision followed a 2024 in which he dethroned Alexander Volkanovski and became the first to knock out Max Holloway.

    When it comes to both of those legends, “La Leyenda” considers himself a fan. But when it comes to a man whom both have defeated but Topuria didn’t face during his time in the weight class, the Spaniard has a different view.

    During a recent appearance on Joe Rogan’s JRE MMA Show, Topuria explained why he isn’t a fan of Yair Rodriguez’s in the same way he is for the two featherweight GOAT contenders.

    “I don’t know what to tell you about Yair Rodriguez. I’m not a big fan of him,” Ilia Topuria said. “He’s the type of guy that you don’t even need to take him down, he goes to the ground himself. He’s like very spectacular the way he fights, the striking, the kicks he throws and all that, but I’m not a big fan of him.

    “I’m a fan of Volk (Volkanovski) and Max Holloway,” Topuria continued. “Actually, they were the smartest guys that I ever faced inside the Octagon. I felt that they were smart. They had that fight IQ. They know how to fight.”

    The ship has seemingly sailed on the prospect of Ilia Topuria and Yair Rodriguez sharing the Octagon.

    With the Mexican still having his sights on the undisputed featherweight gold, his attention will have recently turned from “La Leyenda” to Volkanovski, who returned to the mountaintop by defeating Diego Lopes at UFC 314 on April 12.

  • Ilia Topuria Will ‘Sit’ And Wait For Islam Makhachev Title Fight

    Ilia Topuria Will ‘Sit’ And Wait For Islam Makhachev Title Fight

    Ilia Topuria is sticking to his guns.

    Topuria is set to embark on a new pursuit of gold this year after choosing to vacate the featherweight title after just one defense.

    While a rematch with the man from whom he took the gold last February, Alexander Volkanovski, was expected to await him following a knockout of Max Holloway, a desire to bid farewell to the grueling weight cut has resulted in Topuria committing to a permanent move up.

    By all accounts, the Spaniard is hoping to immediately challenge the lightweight reign of Islam Makhachev. But recent speculation has suggested the Dagestani is looking to have “El Matador” fight a contender first.

    During a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, Topuria responded to that suggestion, insisting that he’ll only settle for an immediate title fight later this year.

    “I don’t care if Islam decides he doesn’t want to fight me. I’ll sit until you’re gonna have to fight me,” Ilia Topuria said. “I’m here. You can’t keep avoiding me.”

  • Paddy Pimblett Vows To ‘Do the Same Thing’ To Ilia Topuria That He Did To Michael Chandler

    Paddy Pimblett Vows To ‘Do the Same Thing’ To Ilia Topuria That He Did To Michael Chandler

    Paddy Pimblett, riding high after his dominant victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, expressed his interest in welcoming Ilia Topuria to the lightweight division.

    Following his TKO win in Miami, Pimblett was asked about a potential future matchup with the former featherweight champion after calling out names like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Arman Tsarukyan.

    “To be honest, I forgot about him. I forgot all about him, or I would’ve mentioned him in the cage. … That’s how irrelevant he is. I’m ranked higher than he is at lightweight, so I’d love to welcome him at 155, but apparently, he’s sitting out and waiting for the title shot.”

    Pimblett believes his performance against Chandler provides a blueprint for defeating Topuria.

    “But what I’ve just done to Chandler, [that’s] the blueprint to beating him. I’ll do the exact same thing to Ilia what I’ve done to Chandler.”

    Looking ahead, Pimblett hopes to contend for the lightweight title in 2026, regardless of who holds the belt, be it Islam Makhachev or another fighter.

    Pimblett acknowledged how fluid the division came be and mentioned potential scenarios involving Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena.

    “I’ve seen stuff where Islam might retire after another defense or two, or if [Jack Della Maddalena] beats Belal Muhammad, he’ll move up and fight for the welterweight belt,” Pimblett explained.

    Ultimately, his focus remains on facing whoever the UFC puts in front of him.

    “Whoever’s in front of me, that’s who I fight. Whoever the UFC sends me… that’s who I fight next, and that’ll be whoever I fight next.”

  • UFC Addresses Spanish Broadcast Appearing To Leak Ilia Topuria’s Lightweight Return Fight

    UFC Addresses Spanish Broadcast Appearing To Leak Ilia Topuria’s Lightweight Return Fight

    The UFC has clarified speculation regarding Ilia Topuria’s next fight after the Spanish broadcast for Saturday’s event appeared to announce the matchup.

    Topuria has set his sights on achieving two-division glory after choosing to vacate the featherweight gold this year following just one defense. He went 2-0 in 2024, dethroning Alexander Volkanovski before becoming the first to knock out Max Holloway.

    Due to an apparent struggle to make the 145-pound weight limit, the Spaniard will move forward as a permanent fixture at 155 pounds. And given his success below, Topuria has seemingly been expecting an immediate showdown with Islam Makhachev.

    If not the reigning champ, “La Leyenda” has pointed to a title eliminator opposite Charles Oliveira. And the chances of that being officially announced seemed to receive a boost during the broadcast of Saturday’s UFC Fight Night.

    But while the Spanish broadcast on ESPN was caught displaying an announcement for Oliveira vs. Topuria, the UFC told MMA Mania’s Alex Behunin that the news is “not true” and was put up by “mistake.”

    Whether that simply means a delay in that matchup coming to fruition or that a different bout entirely is on the way for Ilia Topuria remains to be seen.

  • ‘Unbelievably Cold’ – Fans React As Another UFC Star Changes His Nickname After Ilia Topuria

    ‘Unbelievably Cold’ – Fans React As Another UFC Star Changes His Nickname After Ilia Topuria

    It seems like the UFC is going through a moniker-changing season.

    Last month, Ilia Topuria announced that he would be abandoning his longtime moniker, “El Matador,” in favor of “La Leyenda.” The shift comes as Topuria vacated his UFC featherweight title to pursue a new challenge in the lightweight division, as he sets his sights on becoming a two-division champion.

    However, the undefeated Spaniard isn’t the only UFC fighter to recently undergo a rebrand, as featherweight contender Nathaniel Wood has also opted for a fresh stage name.

    Following his dominant unanimous decision victory over Morgan Charrière at UFC London last month, Wood revealed that he’s retiring the nickname “The Prospect,” stating that he’s no longer an up-and-comer, but a bona fide contender.

    On Friday, the 31-year-old Brit took to social media to unveil his new identity for the final stretch of his career, revealing that he will now go by “The Last Kingsman,” a moniker seemingly inspired by the popular Kingsman film franchise.

    “16 years in this game, ‘The Prospect’ served me well. Time for a new chapter for the last few years of my career,” Wood wrote on X.

    Fans largely responded positively to Wood’s new nickname, with many praising the creativity behind the unique rebrand.

    https://twitter.com/GarySteph7488/status/1908188438228005169
    https://twitter.com/geirks/status/1908195948481638747
    https://twitter.com/Tactical_Bacone/status/1908178804469592510

    “The Last Kingsman” has been part of the UFC roster since June 2018, but has struggled to generate sustained momentum, never surpassing a three-fight win streak.

    Over that stretch, he’s compiled a respectable 9-3 record, with three of those victories coming by way of knockout.

  • Lerone Murphy Expects To Follow Ilia Topuria’s Path To UFC Featherweight Title Shot

    Lerone Murphy Expects To Follow Ilia Topuria’s Path To UFC Featherweight Title Shot

    UFC featherweight contender Lerone Murphy is confident that a statement performance at the expense of Josh Emmett this weekend will net him a first shot at gold on MMA’s biggest stage.

    After an undefeated start to life in the UFC and recent wins over Edson Barboza and Dan Ige, Murphy has cracked the divisional top 10.

    Next, as he continues to pursue a climb up the ranks toward the title picture, “The Miracle” is tasked with getting the better of arguably the most powerful man at 145 pounds, knockout artist Emmett.

    The 40-year-old is no stranger to meeting unbeaten up-and-comers, having headline a Jacksonville event opposite then-future champion Ilia Topuria in mid-2023. After battering the American, Topuria went on to challenge and defeat Alexander Volkanovski to claim the belt.

    With that in mind, Murphy expects the same opportunity to await him should he avoid the dynamite in Emmett’s hands this Saturday night.

    “I’ve got a big job in front of me, a big task in front of me,” Murphy told talkSPORT. “But obviously we know with a win, I’ll be asking for a title shot for sure.

    “Ilia Topuria done it and I’ll be 16-0. So I feel like if I go out there and put on a good, solid performance and look championship worthy, then I think the UFC will give it to me,” Murphy added.

    And should that be the case, the Brit is also hoping for the same man who Topuria unseated last February to return to the throne.

    “I would say Volkanovski (is the preferred championship opponent), just because of the name value,” Lerone Murphy explained. “He’s a legend, and I think if you have Volkanovski on your record, like when you look back on your career, for me, it’s not really about money. It’s about status and what I can tell my kids and what I can look back on.

    “When you get old, all you’ve got is memories, and you’re looking back on what you’ve done. To be able to say, ‘I fought Volkanovski,’ would be a big one. I think he gets the job done next weekend,” Lerone Murphy continued. “So hopefully it’s me versus Volk. But like you said, he’s got a tough matchup. I’ve got a tough matchup. Let’s see what happens.”

    It’s evident that Lerone Murphy will have his eyes on next month’s UFC 314 main event for the vacant featherweight title between Volkanovski and Diego Lopes.

    First things first, though, the Manchester native must stall the late-career ambitions of Emmett, who is returning for the first time since a sickening KO of Bryce Mitchell 16 months ago.

  • Ilia Topuria: The UFC Has Promised Lightweight Title Fight

    Ilia Topuria is placing his trust in Dana White and the UFC as he plans to move up to the 155-pound division.

    Though he hasn’t received official confirmation on his next opponent, whether it will be lightweight champion Islam Makhachev or another contender, Topuria remains confident that his next fight will be for the lightweight title.

    This comes as Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes are set to fight for the featherweight belt that Topuria will vacate at UFC 314.

    Speaking to the media after an event in Madrid, Spain, Topuria reassured his supporters that the UFC has guaranteed him a title fight.

    “I’m not entirely sure what my next fight will be,” Topuria said  (h/t MMA Marca, translation via Championship Rounds). “The only thing I’m sure of is that the UFC’s word is that my next fight will be for the world title. That’s all I know. Afterwards, if it’s going to be Islam, if it’s going to be Charles, I have no idea.” He emphasized the importance of the title being on the line, stating, “The belt will be on the line. That was the promise for leaving my title vacant. They’ve always kept their promises.”

    Topuria isn’t demanding that Makhachev be his opponent. He’s open to either fighting Makhachev for the lightweight title or competing for a vacant belt if Makhachev moves up to 170 pounds. Another potential opponent is Charles Oliveira, whom Topuria has previously expressed interest in fighting. However, Oliveira recently dismissed Topuria, saying he’s not “a big fight,” which led to a strong response from Topuria, who questioned Oliveira’s past record.

    “I haven’t dissed [Oliveira], I’ve told the truth,” Topuria explained. “He has 10 losses. I haven’t said anything else. He has 10 losses. Five by knockout, four by submission, one by decision. He says [lightweight] is the toughest division there is. When he was fighting at 145, even Cub Swanson beat him up. That’s where the conversation ends.

    Topuria continued, “Something he couldn’t achieve at 145 pounds, he did at 155, where he became champion. So why is that division tougher than the one I come from? I don’t find any logic in it. And that’s why I said it seems like he hasn’t read a single page of a newspaper. So if that’s disrespectful, I don’t know since when telling the truth is disrespectful.”

  • Chael Sonnen Names 2 Champions Battling To Replace Conor McGregor As ‘Face Of The’ UFC

    Chael Sonnen Names 2 Champions Battling To Replace Conor McGregor As ‘Face Of The’ UFC

    Chael Sonnen identifies two reigning champions whom he believes have the potential to succeed Conor McGregor as the next global superstar of the UFC.

    Over the years, “The Notorious” has skyrocketed to a level of fame in the UFC that few, if any, fighters in combat sports history have ever matched, blending his iconic trash talk with a flashy fighting style, which earned him recognition as the promotion’s biggest superstar.

    However, some argue that the former two-division UFC champion’s star power has begun to fade due to his prolonged absence from the Octagon and ongoing legal battles, including multiple sexual assault allegations.

    During a recent video on his YouTube channel, Sonnen shared his thoughts on who could emerge as the UFC’s next marquee star. He acknowledged that former champions like Sean O’Malley and Israel Adesanya were once frontrunners in McGregor’s absence but have fallen short of achieving the same global superstardom.

    The former UFC title challenger-turned-analyst went on to highlight featherweight champion Ilia Topuria and interim heavyweight titleholder Tom Aspinall as the two fighters he believes are on the cusp of becoming the UFC’s next megastar.

    “O’Malley starts playing another game: to become the face of the company,” Sonnen said. “A game that Izzy [Adesanya] was already playing. In the absence of Conor McGregor, it’s a seat that needs to be taken. … Right now the battle is between Tom and Ilia. It’s a hard seat to get.”

    Sonnen further noted that the UFC’s top two pound-for-pound fighters, Islam Makhachev and Jon Jones, show little interest in becoming the promotion’s flagship attraction.

    “Jon Jones and Islam [Makhachev] aren’t playing the game. That’s not something either is interested in doing. So that seat is still available.”

    Aspinall remains on the sidelines, having waited over 500 days for Jones to accept his challenge for a heavyweight title unification bout. The Englishman last stepped into the Octagon at UFC 304 in July, where he delivered a swift victory over Curtis Blaydes to retain his interim belt.

    Meanwhile, “La Leyenda” relinquished his 145-pound title last month to commit to a full-time move to the lightweight division. Topuria has pushed for an immediate title shot against reigning champion Makhachev. However, reports suggest that the Dagestani standout has shown little enthusiasm for the potential showdown.

    Topuria is coming off a dominant third-round knockout victory over Max Holloway at UFC 308 in October, marking his first — and ultimately only — title defense before vacating the belt.

  • Ilia Topuria Names The 2 Lightweights He’s Training For After Ditching Featherweight Reign

    Ilia Topuria is hard at work preparing for his fight since committing to a permanent move up to the lightweight division. And although an opponent is unconfirmed, the UFC’s top Spanish star is preparing for one of two men.

    Topuria has set his sights on achieving two-division glory after choosing to vacate the featherweight gold this year following just one defense. “La Leyenda” went 2-0 in 2024, dethroning Alexander Volkanovski before becoming the first to knock out Max Holloway.

    Due to an apparent struggle to make the 145-pound weight limit, the Spaniard will move forward as a permanent fixture at 155 pounds. And given his success below, Topuria has seemingly been expecting a showdown with Islam Makhachev straight away.

    During a recent media scrum recorded by Álvaro Colmenero, Topuria reiterated that desire while also naming the other possible foe he is preparing to face for his arrival into the division.

    Both, he says, are “scared.”

    “All my training is focused on Islam or Charles, because I don’t see any other opponents,” Ilia Topuria said (h/t @ChampRDS). “Neither of them seems to dare (to fight me)… These are the symptoms of fear, we all know that, but it’s normal. I’d be scared too.”

    With reports spreading that Makhachev and his team wish for Topuria to fight a contender before challenging his reign, “La Leyenda” may need to defeat someone like Oliveira this year.

    “Do Bronx,” though, has been making his own push to face Makhachev next time out. The Brazilian former champ has been seeking a rematch with the Dagestani ever since their 2022 clash in Abu Dhabi.

  • Ilia Topuria Reveals New Nickname After Ditching ‘El Matador’ Moniker

    Ilia Topuria Reveals New Nickname After Ditching ‘El Matador’ Moniker

    Ilia Topuria has revealed his new “identity” as he begins a journey toward two-division UFC championship glory in the coming months.

    Topuria is set to embark on a new pursuit of gold this year after choosing to vacate the featherweight title after just one defense.

    Though a rematch with the man from whom he took the belt last February, Alexander Volkanovski, was expected after his knockout of Max Holloway to retain possession of the title, a desire to bid farewell to the difficult weight cut has seen Topuria commit to a permanent move up.

    The Spaniard is hoping to immediately challenge the lightweight reign of Islam Makhachev, but recent reports have claimed that the Dagestani is looking to have Topuria fight a contender to earn the shot first.

    Regardless of who stands opposite the European star next time out, they won’t be facing “El Matador.”

    After revealing plans to ditch his longtime moniker last week, Topuria has seemingly confirmed that he will now be entering the cage as “La Leyenda,” which translates to “The Legend.”

    That news was reported by Georgian reporter Giorgi Kokiashvili.

    With a new nickname in a new weight class, Ilia Topuria will soon be hoping to have a new piece of gold added to his trophy cabinet on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage.

  • Michael Chandler Snubs Tsarukyan, Topuria While Naming Contenders Most Deserving Of A Title Shot

    Michael Chandler Snubs Tsarukyan, Topuria While Naming Contenders Most Deserving Of A Title Shot

    UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler is backing two of his former opponents as the leading candidates for the next title shot at 155 pounds.

    The championship picture is somewhat unclear in the lightweight division after what unfolded at UFC 311. While Arman Tsarukyan entered the year at the front of the queue, a last-minute withdrawal cost him the opportunity. With that, it appears that the Russian-Armenian will need to once again defeat a fellow contender to re-earn the shot.

    Meanwhile, a few of his targets — namely Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje — have attempted to stake their claim for a shot at Islam Makhachev this summer.

    And that’s without even mentioning the arrival of Ilia Topuria, who is hoping for an immediate chance at achieving two-division glory after leaving behind his reign as featherweight kingpin.

    During a recent Q&A session on X, Michael Chandler was asked to give his take on the situation.

    The former Bellator champ omitted both Tsarukyan and Topuria from his answer when choosing the ‘most deserving’ of the next title shot, instead naming two stars who share three wins over “Iron” inside the Octagon.

    “So hard to say… gaethje or oliveira,” Michael Chandler wrote.

    After mounting a comeback to stop Chandler in their 2022 title fight, Oliveira once again got the better of the American in their rematch inside Madison Square Garden last November. In-between those results, Chandler fell short in a memorable Fight of the Year war with Gaethje.

    Despite being 2-4 in the UFC and coming off a second setback to “Do Bronx,” Chandler is also hoping to insert his name into the title debate soon enough.

    With a knockout victory over Paddy Pimblett next month at UFC 314, Chandler is looking to make himself available for a quick turnaround for a clash with Makhachev at International Fight Week in June.

  • Fighter With All-Star Corner Of Topuria And Chimaev Loses To +300 Underdog At UFC London

    Fighter With All-Star Corner Of Topuria And Chimaev Loses To +300 Underdog At UFC London

    UFC London showed that just because you have big names helping you prepare for a fight and in your corner, it doesn’t mean you’ll be coming out on top.

    Guram Kutateladze experienced this in a harsh way, dropping a one-sided decision against Kauê Fernandes to open up the preliminary card of Saturday’s event in England’s capital despite boasting both Ilia Topuria and Khamzat Chimaev in his corner.

    Fernandes was one of the most notable underdogs coming into the event, standing at odds of +300 at the time of the fight.

    The Brazilian controlled the fight from the outset with dynamic striking. Early on his dominance was set via a powerful head kick that dropped “Georgian Viking.”

    Kutateladze attempted to gain control of the fight with his grappling, but Fernandes’ kicks and movement continued to be problematic for the fighter with the all-star corner.

    Guram Kutateladze Dominated At UFC London Despite Big Names In Corner

    Fernandes continued his pressure and kicks in the second round, adding in a takedown for good measure. With Kutateladze already cut, the underdog made things worse by not only busting him up to the point he was wearing a crimson mask at the end of the fight, but also dropping the Georgian twice more.

    Fernandes ultimately swept the judges scorecards 30-27.

    Fernandes is now 2-1 in the Octagon, having scored a first-round finish of Mohammad Yahya back in August 2024.

    Kutateladze, meanwhile, is now 2-3 in the UFC, having been unable to string together consecutive victories in his tenure.

  • Weight Class Isn’t The Only Thing Ilia Topuria Is Changing For His Next UFC Fight

    Weight Class Isn’t The Only Thing Ilia Topuria Is Changing For His Next UFC Fight

    Ilia Topuria is set to unveil an entirely new version of himself the next time he steps into the Octagon.

    Topuria’s four-year journey in the UFC has been nothing short of spectacular. With an undefeated record and an ever-expanding highlight reel, he has cemented himself as one of the brightest stars in the MMA world.

    The Spaniard knocked out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024 to claim the featherweight throne. He then solidified his reign at UFC 308 in October, making history as the first fighter to ever knock out Max Holloway while successfully defending his championship.

    However, last month, “El Matador” vacated his 145-pound title, setting his sights on the lightweight division in pursuit of becoming a two-division UFC champion. UFC CEO Dana White stated that Topuria chose to take this step after asserting that he had nothing left to prove at featherweight. Additionally, the growing challenge of cutting down to 145 pounds played a key role in his decision to move up a division.

    But it appears that Ilia Topuria’s transformation goes beyond just a change in weight class.

    Taking to X on Thursday, “El Matador” announced that he would be dropping his moniker — which translates to “The Killer” — and completely reinventing his identity for his next Octagon appearance.

    “‘El Matador’ has been my ally in every fight. But next time, I’ll step into the octagon with a new identity. #NewEra,” Topuria wrote.

    Ilia Topuria has been relentless in his pursuit of a title fight against reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. He even teased a major announcement, claiming fans “won’t believe it.”

    However, Makhachev’s camp has reportedly hinted that the Dagestani champion is not ready to grant Topuria a title shot just yet. Instead, they believe he must first prove himself in a title eliminator bout against a top contender.

  • Kamaru Usman Pitches Lightweight Opponent For Ilia Topuria — And It’s Not Islam Makhachev

    Kamaru Usman Pitches Lightweight Opponent For Ilia Topuria — And It’s Not Islam Makhachev

    Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has an idea for how Ilia Topuria can earn a shot at two-division glory.

    Topuria is set to embark on a new pursuit of gold this year after choosing to vacate the featherweight title after just one defense.

    While a rematch with the man from whom he took the gold last February, Alexander Volkanovski, was expected to await him following a knockout of Max Holloway, a desire to bid farewell to the grueling weight cut has resulted in Topuria committing to a permanent move up.

    By all accounts, the Spaniard is hoping to immediately challenge the lightweight reign of Islam Makhachev. But recent speculation has suggested the Dagestani is looking to have “El Matador” fight a contender first.

    Should that sentiment be shared by the UFC, Usman named a potential foe for Topuria’s first clash back at 155 pounds during a recent episode of his Pound 4 Pound podcast alongside Henry Cejudo.

    “Ilia Topuria, Mateusz Gamrot,” Usman said before justifying himself following Cejudo’s disapproval. “Hey, hey, hey, hey. The one thing we really don’t see often is Ilia Topuria on his back.”

    It didn’t take long for Gamrot to co-sign Usman’s suggestion, backing the potential matchup in a post on X.

    “Gamer,” who currently occupies the #8 ranking at 155 pounds, hasn’t fought since a narrow split decision loss to Dan Hooker in Perth last August. That result snapped a three-fight winning streak for the Polish standout.

  • Former Foe Endorses Ilia Topuria’s Immediate Shot At LW Title: ‘He Sort Of Deserves It’

    Former Foe Endorses Ilia Topuria’s Immediate Shot At LW Title: ‘He Sort Of Deserves It’

    A former opponent of Ilia Topuria’s believes ‘El Matador’ has proven himself worthy and has rightfully earned an immediate shot at the UFC lightweight title.

    Last month, Topuria gave up his UFC featherweight championship to chase 155-pound gold and potentially secure his place as the promotion’s 10th two-division titleholder. Consequently, former champion Alexander Volkanovski is set to face the fast-rising Diego Lopes for the vacant 145-pound title at UFC 314 on April 12.

    UFC CEO Dana White previously mentioned that Ilia Topuria’s decision to move up a weight class was driven by his belief that he had already accomplished enough in the featherweight division, along with the increasing difficulty of making the weight limit.

    While the undefeated Spaniard has made it clear that he’s eager to face reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, it’s still uncertain whether he’ll be granted an instant title shot.

    Rumors are also circulating that the Dagestani champion is unwilling to defend his belt until Topuria first proves himself in a title eliminator matchup against a top contender. However, Volkanovski is confident that “El Matador” has earned the opportunity to face Makhachev.

    During a recent appearance on the Believe You Me podcast, ‘The Great’ voiced his support for Ilia Topuria’s shot at the 155-pound title, commending his former foe for not clinging to his featherweight title or chasing simultaneous championships across two divisions.

    “Put it this way, if he was trying to hang on to both belts, I don’t think that was going to happen,” Volkanovski said. “The fact that he’s vacated and the lightweight division’s in a position where, I don’t know, there’s no real clear No. 1, I think it’s fair. The fact that he vacated, I think that that’s fair.

    “If he wanted to hang on and do the double champ thing, I think he needed to do more work, but the fact that he’s like, ‘Look, I’m going to let this one go. Let that division move on. I want to commit to lightweight. I think that’s big. I think that’s fair, so I think he sort of deserves it.”

    Topuria secured the 145-pound title for the first time at UFC 298 in February 2024, delivering a stunning knockout of Volkanovski. He successfully defended his belt at UFC 308 in October, securing another knockout, this time against Max Holloway.

  • Paddy Pimblett: Arman Tsarukyan ‘Deserves’ Lightweight Title Shot Over Ilia Topuria

    Paddy Pimblett: Arman Tsarukyan ‘Deserves’ Lightweight Title Shot Over Ilia Topuria

    UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett doesn’t like the idea of Ilia Topuria being granted an immediate title shot at 155 pounds.

    Topuria has set his sights on achieving two-division glory after choosing to vacate the featherweight gold this year following just one defense. “El Matador” went 2-0 in 2024, dethroning Alexander Volkanovski before becoming the first to knock out Max Holloway.

    Due to an apparent struggle to make the 145-pound weight limit, the Spaniard will move forward as a permanent figure in the lightweight division. And given his success below, Topuria has seemingly been expecting a showdown with Islam Makhachev straight away.

    During a recent interview with Jon Anik for ESPN MMA, Paddy Pimblett rejected that as a logical next fight for the champion. “The Baddy,” who has long had a rivalry with Topuria, insisted that current top contender Arman Tsarukyan is far more deserving of the opportunity.

    “I felt a bit bad for him (Tsarukyan) when Dana said, ‘No, he’s not next. He’s going to have to go back to the drawing board.’ I was like, wow, shots fired,” Pimblett said. “I think personally, Arman still deserves the next title shot. Islam’s already beat Charles (Oliveira), beat (Dustin) Poirier.

    “I think the only person right for him to fight is Arman,” Pimblett continued. “Arman deserves that title shot more than ‘Hand Sanitizer Boy’ (Topuria) does.”

    Tsarukyan entered the year with a title shot in the bank, but a last-second withdrawal from UFC 311 left the promotion bumping him down the pecking order.

    While the Russian-Armenian looks ahead to his chance to restore top contender status, Paddy Pimblett will soon have the chance to climb the ranks opposite former title challenger Michael Chandler at UFC 314 in Miami next month.

  • Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    The lightweight division is buzzing with excitement as Islam Makhachev holds the championship, with several contenders eager for a title shot. Amid this competitive landscape, Arman Tsarukyan has shared his thoughts on a potential showdown between Makhachev and former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.

    Tsarukyan, who was originally slated to challenge Makhachev at UFC 311 before a back injury forced him out, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. Weighing in on the potential matchup, he sees it as a close contest, acknowledging Topuria’s striking prowess while questioning his ability to withstand Makhachev’s relentless grappling.

    “It’s a tough fight,” Arman Tsarukyan told The Schmo. “Ilia, he is a better striker; good boxing. I don’t know—like, he’s never fought with guys who can wrestle very well like Islam, so we will see. It is a 50-50 fight.”

    The intrigue of this matchup lies in the stylistic clash between Topuria’s striking power and Makhachev’s elite grappling. While Topuria’s boxing has been a dominant weapon, Makhachev’s wrestling follows the well-established blueprint of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Having faced Makhachev himself, Tsarukyan offers valuable insight into the champion’s approach, making his analysis all the more compelling.

  • Ilia Topuria Teases Huge Announcement Fans ‘Won’t Believe’

    Ilia Topuria Teases Huge Announcement Fans ‘Won’t Believe’

    Ilia Topuria appears to have secured a high-profile showdown for his next Octagon outing.

    Last month, Topuria shocked the MMA world by vacating his UFC featherweight title, opting to test himself in the lightweight division in pursuit of becoming a two-division champion.

    As a result, former champion Alexander Volkanovski is set to face Diego Lopes for the vacant title in the UFC 314 main event on April 12 at Miami’s Kaseya Center.

    UFC CEO Dana White announced that “El Matador” opted to compete in a higher weight class, believing he had already dominated the featherweight division while also facing the relentless challenge of cutting down to 145 pounds.

    Despite Topuria’s persistent desire to challenge reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, his first opponent in the division has yet to be revealed. However, the undefeated Spaniard publicly addressed his fans on Thursday for the first time since vacating his championship and teased that he has an announcement in the works, one he believes will leave his fans utterly amazed.

    “When we announce it, you won’t believe it. Get ready,” Ilia Topuria wrote on X.

    “El Matador” was last seen in action at UFC 308 last October, where he made history as the first fighter to ever knock out Max Holloway, successfully defending his featherweight title in the process. Prior to that, he knocked out Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024 to capture the championship.

    Ilia Topuria currently sports an unblemished 8-0 record in the UFC and an overall perfect 16-0 mark, including six knockout victories and eight submission triumphs.

  • Former Opponent Says Ilia Topuria Enters ‘GOAT Conversation’ With Win Over Islam Makhachev

    Former Opponent Says Ilia Topuria Enters ‘GOAT Conversation’ With Win Over Islam Makhachev

    Ilia Topuria’s former opponent believes that if the stars align perfectly in his favor, “El Matador” has the potential to enter the greatest of all time (GOAT) discussion.

    Last week, Topuria took a daring leap, vacating his UFC featherweight title to chase greatness in the lightweight division, with hopes of etching his name in history as a two-division champion.

    UFC CEO Dana White revealed that the undefeated Spaniard chose to move up in weight, convinced that he had already conquered the featherweight division while also struggling with the ever-demanding cut to 145 pounds.

    Though Topuria has long voiced his desire to challenge reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, there is currently no official word on who his first opponent in the division will be.

    However, Youssef Zalal, who suffered defeat against “El Matador” in their clash back in October 2020, believes that a showdown between Makhachev and Topuria is the fight to make — one in which he sees his former opponent having a real shot at victory.

    “I’m gonna go with Ilia. I think I’ll stick with Ilia on this one,” Zalal said in a recent interview with Sportskeeda MMA.

    “The Moroccan Devil” further suggested that if Ilia Topuria strategically utilizes his wrestling skills and somehow dethrones UFC’s pound-for-pound No. 1, Makhachev, he could carve out a legacy among the sport’s all-time greats.

    “You beat Islam, you’re in the greatest (of all time) conversation. Like, you’re one of the [fighters in the] GOAT conversation. So to go do that…and I’m telling you, man, I feel like they’re sleeping on his wrestling and I think his attribute is that, obviously, his gas tank, they can say this and that, but also Islam’s gas tank is a little bit this and that. But man, [beating] Islam, bro…for me, that’s the greatest of all time.”

    Topuria remains undefeated in his professional career, boasting a flawless 8-0 record in the UFC. He claimed the featherweight title with a dominant finish over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 before solidifying his reign with another statement-making knockout against Max Holloway at UFC 308 last year.