A former holder of the UFC’s ‘BMF’ title has shared his insights on a much-speculated dream fight between current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and featherweight phenom Ilia Topuria.
Recent reports suggested that Ilia Topuria had agreed to vacate his featherweight belt to challenge Makhachev for the welterweight title on June 14th at the White House. However, this planned bout was reportedly scrapped due to Makhachev suffering a hand injury.
UFC President Dana White later clarified that a Makhachev vs. Topuria superfight was never officially slated for the UFC Freedom 250 event.
Instead, Topuria is now expected to face two-time interim UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje on June 14th. Islam Makhachev remains sidelined with his injury, and an official timeline for his return or his first welterweight title defense has yet to be announced.
Jorge Masvidal Breaks Down Hypothetical Makhachev vs. Topuria Showdown
During a discussion on his podcast, Jorge Masvidal dissected the potential matchup between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. Masvidal acknowledged Topuria’s incredible knockout power, stating that “El Matador” possesses the ability to finish any opponent. However, he cautioned that if Makhachev secures a takedown, the fight would likely swing decisively in the Dagestani champion’s favor.
Masvidal highlighted Makhachev’s dominant performance in his welterweight debut at UFC 322, where he thoroughly controlled and dethroned Jack Della Maddalena over five rounds. “Gamebred” emphasized that while Topuria and Della Maddalena are exceptional strikers, Makhachev’s grappling mastery operates on an entirely different plane.
“I envision Islam taking Ilia down and making it an incredibly grueling fight for him, or Ilia landing a clean shot with his hands. In my assessment, Ilia is perhaps two levels faster than Makhachev, and his power is truly unparalleled. Yet, Makhachev on the ground possesses relentless stamina, can submit opponents from any position, and is exceptionally skilled at getting to your legs and forcing you to work. Jack’s striking is top-tier, and Islam simply outmaneuvered him.”