Ilia Topuria is one of the brightest stars in the UFC’s featherweight division, and his meteoric rise to the top has been nothing short of impressive. However, despite his undeniable talent, Topuria has made headlines recently for what many are calling his “biggest mistake.” Meanwhile, UFC legend and analyst Daniel Cormier is making waves with his brutally honest analysis of Islam Makhachev’s fight, offering some harsh truths about the lightweight champion’s performance.

Ilia Topuria’s BIGGEST Mistake

Topuria has already garnered significant attention for his dominant performances in the cage, showcasing his all-around skills and finishing ability. With a perfect record and impressive victories over top-ranked fighters, it seems like nothing could stand in his way. However, recently, Topuria made a decision that could prove to be his biggest mistake in his young UFC career.

The mistake? Calling out fighters too soon, and, more specifically, targeting an opponent he may not yet be ready for.

Topuria recently expressed interest in fighting some of the top fighters in the featherweight division, including champions like Alexander Volkanovski. While his confidence is certainly admirable, many analysts, including former champions like Daniel Cormier, have pointed out that it might be a little premature. Volkanovski is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC, and jumping into a title fight without further honing his skills could be a risky move for Topuria.

While Topuria has proven he’s capable of competing with the best, many believe he still needs a few more high-level experiences to refine his game, particularly when it comes to facing elite wrestlers and more experienced fighters. Some argue that rushing into such a high-stakes bout could expose weaknesses that are better addressed in a more gradual progression.

Topuria’s calling out the top dogs, while bold, might just be his biggest mistake if he’s not fully prepared to face the absolute best in the division. However, there’s no doubt his talent will eventually take him there—he just might need a little more seasoning before taking that massive leap.

Daniel Cormier’s HARSH Truth on Islam Makhachev’s Fight

As one of the most respected analysts in the sport, Daniel Cormier isn’t one to hold back when offering his opinions, especially when it comes to the top fighters in the UFC. Recently, Cormier shared his thoughts on Islam Makhachev’s latest performance, and let’s just say, he didn’t sugarcoat it.

Cormier, who knows a thing or two about high-level competition, called out Makhachev for some of the flaws that were exposed in his last fight. While Makhachev emerged victorious, his performance didn’t impress Cormier, who felt that Makhachev left some questions unanswered about his reign as lightweight champion.

“There’s no doubt Islam is an incredible fighter, but there are some things he has to clean up if he wants to stay at the top,” Cormier stated. “He’s dominant, yes, but he was too comfortable at times, and that can be a dangerous thing in the UFC. If he faces a fighter who can exploit those openings, it could cost him.”

Cormier specifically pointed out Makhachev’s tendency to get complacent during certain portions of the fight. While his grappling and control are world-class, Cormier emphasized that Makhachev can’t afford to rest on his laurels. The lightweight division is as competitive as ever, with fighters like Charles Oliveira, Beniel Dariush, and Arman Tsarukyan all eager for a shot at the title.

“Islam is a phenomenal fighter, but he has to be more aggressive, more active with his striking,” Cormier added. “He can’t just rely on his wrestling and jiu-jitsu. If he gets into a striking exchange with a guy like Oliveira or someone with fast hands, it could be trouble.”

Cormier’s comments reflect a harsh but fair reality for Makhachev. While his grappling game is second to none, he will need to make adjustments to his striking and overall fight IQ to remain dominant in the lightweight division. The level of competition is only getting tougher, and Makhachev will need to sharpen all aspects of his game to fend off the growing list of contenders nipping at his heels.

The Road Ahead for Topuria and Makhachev

Ilia Topuria has all the tools to be a future champion, but whether he’s ready to face the top-tier fighters in the division is still up for debate. His bold callouts show confidence, but rushing into big fights too soon could prove to be his biggest mistake. If he continues to develop his skills and faces some more seasoned fighters, he’ll be ready for the big time. However, patience will be key for Topuria’s future success in the UFC.

As for Islam Makhachev, Cormier’s harsh critique might be exactly what the lightweight champion needs to hear. Makhachev has shown immense talent, but if he wants to cement himself as the best lightweight in the world, he must continue to evolve. The fighters challenging for the title won’t let him slip up, and Makhachev will need to tighten his approach if he wants to keep his place atop the division.

In the end, both Topuria and Makhachev are highly skilled fighters who have a bright future ahead of them. But their journeys to the top will require hard work, adjustments, and learning from mistakes. The MMA world is watching closely, and the stakes are only getting higher.