Ilia Topuria‘s confidence is at an all-time high after becoming the UFC featherweight champion earlier this year. Going into his first title defense, the Georgian-Spaniard has already stacked up rivalries with the likes of Islam Makhachev. However, when it comes to the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, Topuria’s intentions are somewhat different.
Topuria recently claimed that he will beat Islam Makhachev with ease in order to become the double champion. This attracted a variety of threats from other members of Team Khabib, which didn’t seem to bother the ‘El Matador’. In a recent interview, he mocked some members of Team Khabib. However, he didn’t forget to show respect to the UFC Hall of Famer.
One thing I respect about Khabib, the guy is super respectful…He never says anything about anybody, people talk a lot, he never says anything …I’ve mentioned Islam and all the cousins come out. They’ve never knocked anyone out…they’re super cheaters.
Ilia Topuria via KOImenero’s YouTube channel
Topuria is a huge fan of Nurmagomedov’s achievements both inside and outside the octagon. He has talked about fighting Nurmagomedov in a hypothetical dream bout. However, that hasn’t stopped the fighter from hurling insults at other members and claiming that he will outclass Makhachev.
Ilia Topuria shows respect to Khabib, but goes IN on his cousins/teammates 😳
“One thing I respect about Khabib, the guy is super respectful… I mentioned Islam, and all the cousins come out.
They’ve never knocked anyone out, they get caught using steroids, they’re super… pic.twitter.com/Bxmm77AEG0
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 21, 2024
The same goes for top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, who has promised to knock out Makhachev. Similar to Topuria, the Armenian has a great deal of respect for Nurmagomedov. While Tsarukyan is next in line to fight Makhachev, Topuria does have a long way to go before asking for that shot.
Team Khabib superstar asks Ilia Topuria to stop chasing Islam Makhachev
Over the last few years, Islam Makhachev has showcased dominance in the lightweight division with exceptional grappling, striking improvements, and consistent wins. He has solidified his reputation as Khabib Nurmagomedov’s successor after becoming the top UFC pound-for-pound fighter. His last fight against top lightweight Dustin Poirier was a testament to his grit as a champion.
However, Ilia Topuria feels he has the tools to defeat Makhachev, and it is just a matter of time. Top UFC bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov was recently asked about this rivalry. According to the Team Khabib member, the featherweight champion hasn’t done enough to challenge Makhachev.
When you have good fights on your division be quiet. Beat everybody…they have levels and he’s not Islam level. He’s too small.
Umar Nurmagomedov via Submission Radio
Umar Nurmagomedov warns Ilia Topuria he’s not on Islam Makhachev’s level:
“When you have good fights on your division be quiet. Beat everybody…they have levels and he’s not Islam level. He’s too small.”
— Submission Radio (@SubmissionRadio) October 16, 2024
Before talking about Makhachev, Topuria will initially have to go through Max Holloway this Saturday. The hype around the title clash is second to none, and the champ has promised to finish his opponent. The ‘Blessed’ isn’t worried and is ready for the ultimate striking challenge, which has the potential to end with a brutal knockout.
