Khabib Nurmagomedov has revealed why a fight between his protege Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria is currently improbable.
A highly anticipated match between Makhachev and Topuria has been discussed since Topuria relinquished his featherweight title in February.
However, this fight has not yet materialized, with reports suggesting Makhachev desires Topuria to demonstrate his capabilities in the lightweight division before granting him a title opportunity.
According to Nurmagomedov, the current top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter has concerns about facing Topuria, as he is relatively unproven in this weight class.
He stated in an interview, “Imagine Islam defeats Topuria, and then Topuria competes again and loses. Essentially, he would be considered insignificant at 155lbs.”
“Consequently, Islam would have defeated someone who was nobody at 155, which wouldn`t enhance Islam’s legacy.”
Makhachev has displayed dominance in his recent title defenses against Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano.
However, critics point out that his title defenses have primarily been against former featherweight fighters.
This fact seems to be a key consideration for the champion when contemplating a fight with Topuria, despite the potential attention and financial gains it could generate.
Nurmagomedov added, “Islam is not interested in fighting Topuria, Volkanovski, or a late replacement like Moicano.”
“Islam aims to compete against prominent fighters who genuinely deserve it, those who have been established in the 155-pound division for a considerable time.”
Nurmagomedov`s remarks prompted a response from Topuria, who confidently tweeted, “Khabib knows I am the one to take the belt from Islam. That’s the only reason he doesn’t want Islam to fight me.”
These comments from Nurmagomedov about Topuria challenging Makhachev for the lightweight title follow Dana White`s recent update on Topuria`s next fight.
In the UFC 314 post-fight press conference, White mentioned, “We are working on it. We have a lot to handle. He is one of the biggest stars in the company. If we had finalized plans, we would have already announced them.”
Makhachev has not fought since his victory over Moicano in January at UFC 311.
Topuria`s last fight was against Max Holloway at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi last October.
Elton Marrow