The recent exchange of words between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev has captured the attention of the entire mixed martial arts community.
Both fighters, who were previously champions in lower divisions, are now setting their sights on claiming world titles in higher weight classes. Topuria, a former featherweight champion, is scheduled to face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight championship at UFC 317 next month. Similarly, Makhachev, who recently vacated the 155-pound belt, is preparing to challenge the reigning welterweight champion, Jack Della Maddalena, later this year.
Topuria`s decision to move up to lightweight follows his impressive victory and historic knockout of Max Holloway during his sole featherweight title defense at UFC 308 in October. While a potential confrontation with Makhachev seemed like a strong possibility at one point, discussions about the longtime lightweight king moving up to welterweight had already been circulating. Makhachev had frequently expressed his willingness to take on new challenges but had publicly stated that he wanted to see Topuria secure a victory against a top lightweight contender before considering a fight with him.
Now that Makhachev is making his move to the welterweight division, Topuria has labelled him a “hypocrite,” arguing that Makhachev is doing precisely what he had criticized Topuria for doing. This recent back-and-forth has led many fans to feel that a highly anticipated super-fight has been missed. However, some fans are humorously anticipating potential setbacks for both fighters in their respective new divisions.
The online MMA community has actively shared various reactions and opinions regarding this developing rivalry.
