Topuria doesn't hesitate when asked whether he would beat McGregor at the Irishman's peak: 'without a doubt'

C. McGregor (pictured) is a former two-time UFC champion. (Photo: Reproduction/Twitter UFCNews)

Pointed out for being very similar to Conor McGregor in various mannerisms in his MMA career, Ilia Topuria doesn't leave a champion aura even when talking about a possible idol in the sport. New lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg) and undefeated after defeating 17 opponents, the Spanish-Georgian was sincere when talking about a potential meeting with the Irishman.

Even though he was seen as a big star at his peak in the UFC and had scored convincing victories over rivals, the best version of McGregor would be defeated by the rising champion Ilia Topuria. This is what the Spanish-Georgian claims to believe, due to the constant evolution in the sport in which he reigns.

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Ilia Topuria is undefeated in MMA. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iliatopuria

“Without a doubt (I would beat McGregor in his prime). The sport evolves every year. It’s constantly evolving. It’s like comparing the football stars of the 80s or 90s with the ones of now. Would they shine? Maybe, but I think they are better players now,” Topuria said during an interview with Álvaro Colmenero.

At 28 years old, Topuria won his second UFC belt at the same age that Conor became a two-time champion in the organization. Known for his knockout power and ability to finish on the ground, the Spaniard has nine victories in the UFC, seven of which were won quickly. In his last three appearances, 'El Matador' has knocked out all of his rivals.

McGregor and the golden age of the UFC

Conor McGregor is a former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion. (Photo: Reproduction/UFC)

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Signed by the UFC after becoming champion in the English promotion Cage Warriors, McGregor got off to a good start and brutally knocked out Marcus Brimage, who at the time had won three straight. The Irishman then overcame Max Holloway and began his race towards the belt.

After three knockouts in a row, 'Notório' got the opportunity to fight for the interim featherweight belt (up to 65,7kg) against Chad Mendes and again he made another victim with the power of his hands. When he was chosen to face José Aldo At UFC 194, Conor shocked the world by knocking out the Brazilian in 13 seconds and preventing the Manaus native from defending his title eighth time.

Soon after, the Irishman had a great rivalry with Nate diaz, where he had one win and one loss in duels with his rival and even conquered the lightweight throne by dispatching Eddie Alvarez with a great performance. The decline began after he was finished by Khabib Nurmagomedov and ceased to be champion. Since then, McGregor has been inactive for two years, defeated Donald Cerrone in triumphant return and ended up being surpassed by Dustin poirier twice in a row in 2021.