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)

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Often compared to Conor McGregor in various mannerisms throughout his MMA career, Ilia Topuria doesn't project a champion-like aura even when discussing a potential idol in the sport. The new lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg) and undefeated after defeating 17 opponents, the Spanish-Georgian fighter was candid when speaking about a possible encounter with the Irishman.

Even though he was seen as a huge star in his UFC prime and had some impressive victories over rivals, the best version of McGregor would be defeated by the rising champion Ilia Topuria . That's what the Spanish-Georgian fighter believes, due to his constant evolution in the sport he dominates.

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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 British promotion Cage Warriors, McGregor debuted with a bang, brutally knocking out Marcus Brimage, who at the time was coming off three consecutive wins. Following that, the Irishman defeated Max Holloway and officially began his run towards the title.

After three consecutive knockouts, 'Notorious' earned the opportunity to fight for the interim featherweight title (up to 65,7kg) against Chad Mendes and once again claimed another victim with the power of his hands. When scheduled 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 making his eighth title defense.

Shortly after, the Irishman engaged in a major rivalry with Nate Diaz , where he had one win and one loss in duels with his rival, and even won the lightweight title by defeating Eddie Alvarez with a great performance. The decline began after he was submitted by Khabib Nurmagomedov and lost his title. Since then, McGregor has been inactive for two years, defeated Donald Cerrone in a triumphant return, and ended up being defeated by Dustin Poirier twice in a row in 2021.

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