Ilia Topuria is turning up the heat with his trash talk aimed at Islam Makhachev.
Earlier this year, Topuria made a significant move by relinquishing his featherweight title to compete in the 155-pound division, aiming for a second championship. This move by the 28-year-old Spanish fighter surprised many and led to speculation that he would immediately contend for the lightweight title.
However, that title shot hasn`t materialized yet. Current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, also considered a top pound-for-pound fighter, wants Topuria to prove himself in the lightweight division before granting him a title opportunity. Topuria appears to be unhappy with this stance. In recent comments to reporters, Topuria essentially called Makhachev a coward, as the two elite fighters continue to talk about a potential matchup.
“I’m preparing for Islam Makhachev,” Topuria stated. “My entire training camp is focused on either Islam or Charles Oliveira because I don’t see any other legitimate contenders. Those are the two names I’m considering. But neither of them seems eager to step up.”
“They claim champions should fight anyone, yet they suggest I’m too small to fight. I move up in weight, and suddenly I’m still considered small. Then they argue I haven’t earned it yet. These are clear indicators of fear, and we all recognize it. But it’s understandable; I’d be scared too.”
Topuria is currently ranked as the No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter globally and was recognized as Fighter of the Year for his impressive performances in 2024. However, with only one featherweight title defense, he doesn`t fit the profile of a long-reigning champion who typically receives automatic title shots when switching weight classes.
Makhachev, on the other hand, is the UFC`s longest-reigning champion at the moment, boasting four successful lightweight title defenses. He recently defeated Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January and has openly expressed his ambition to move up and pursue a title in a second weight division.
