The lightweight division is rife with tension surrounding Islam Makhachev’s title reign, particularly from Ilia Topuria, a former featherweight champion. Topuria has consistently expressed his desire to challenge Makhachev for the lightweight title, insisting he has the skills to defeat the Dagestani champion. In a recent interview, he suggested that Makhachev’s reluctance to accept their matchup stems from fear of losing to him. Topuria criticized Makhachev for taking easier fights and declared his plan to dominate him in the octagon.
As Makhachev prepares for UFC 315, where welterweight champion Belal Muhammad will defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena, he remains committed to not vacating his lightweight title regardless of the outcome. Makhachev has ambitions to move up a weight class for a chance at a second championship. Meanwhile, Topuria is poised to compete against Charles Oliveira if he doesn’t get the fight with Makhachev. With Makhachev’s growing reputation as a formidable champion—having defended his title four times—the outcomes of upcoming fights could significantly alter the lightweight landscape and set up exciting future matchups in the promotion.
