Ilia Topuria has quickly become one of the most exciting and dangerous fighters in the UFC, especially in the featherweight division. However, as his momentum builds and his career takes off, Topuria is already setting his sights on bigger challenges, including a potential move up in weight to take on the reigning UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. In a recent interview, the rising star opened up about his thoughts on the potential superfight with Makhachev, as well as his plans for a potential rematch with Alexander Volkanovski if he decides to stay at featherweight.

Topuria’s Vision of a Superfight with Makhachev:

Ilia Topuria has shown no fear when it comes to fighting the best of the best. The undefeated fighter’s rise in the featherweight division has made him a potential contender for a title shot soon, but his ambitions stretch beyond just the 145-pound weight class. Topuria recently revealed that he has been thinking about moving up to lightweight to challenge Islam Makhachev, who has been dominating the division ever since taking the belt.

Makhachev is considered one of the most well-rounded fighters in the world, known for his superb grappling and growing striking game. However, Topuria isn’t intimidated. “I believe I can go up and beat Makhachev,” he said. “I have the power and skills to handle anyone in any weight class. It’s just about timing, and when the time is right, I’ll move up and fight him.”

The confidence Topuria exudes is reflective of his past performances. He’s proven to be an elite striker with knockout power, and he’s equally dangerous on the ground. While Makhachev’s grappling and control are what make him so formidable, Topuria believes that his ability to mix things up in the striking department will give him an edge. “I respect Makhachev, but I know I have the tools to beat him. I’ll be ready for the challenge,” he said, emphasizing his readiness to take on the champion at 155 pounds.

The Featherweight Division and a Potential Rematch with Volkanovski:

Before any move up in weight, Topuria has unfinished business in the featherweight division. The possibility of a rematch with current champion Alexander Volkanovski is something that Topuria has his eyes on. Volkanovski, who has long been considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, has a dominant reign in the division, and Topuria’s rise has positioned him as a possible challenger.

Though Volkanovski defeated Max Holloway in a thrilling trilogy and went on to battle Islam Makhachev in a lightweight title fight, Topuria believes that the Australian champion’s time in the featherweight division may be limited. “If Volkanovski stays at 145 pounds, we will definitely fight again,” Topuria said. “I respect him a lot, but I know I can beat him. I’ve been working hard, and I believe my style can give him problems.”

Topuria’s performance in his most recent fights has been stellar, with dominant victories that showcased his striking prowess and well-rounded skill set. His confidence in securing a future fight against Volkanovski highlights his belief in his own abilities, and he’s not one to shy away from the challenge.

What’s Next for Topuria?

For now, Topuria remains focused on his career in the featherweight division. With the possibility of moving up to lightweight or rematching Volkanovski, his future in the UFC looks incredibly bright. If he continues his current trajectory, Topuria could be in line for a featherweight title shot soon, with the potential to move up to lightweight and challenge Makhachev once he secures a dominant position in his current weight class.

UFC fans are eagerly awaiting what’s next for the Georgian-born fighter. Whether he decides to stay at featherweight and pursue the title or move up and test himself against the best at lightweight, one thing is clear: Ilia Topuria is a fighter to watch, and his journey to the top is just beginning.

In Conclusion:

Ilia Topuria is not one to rest on his laurels. Whether he stays at featherweight for a potential rematch with Volkanovski or makes the jump to lightweight for a showdown with Islam Makhachev, his ambitions are clear. Topuria’s skills, confidence, and willingness to take on the best make him one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC today. Whatever path he chooses, fans can expect fireworks every time he steps into the octagon.