I. Topuria is the UFC featherweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufcbrasil
Current UFC featherweight champion (up to 65,7 kg), Ilia Topuria does not hesitate to hide his desire to face Islam makhachev in his next appearance in the octagon. Despite being willing to move up a category, the fighter shows respect for the organization's decisions and guarantees that he is willing to follow whatever the leaders choose for his future.
“That’s something I want to do, the UFC knows that. But ultimately, that’s something the UFC decides. They know how to run the business. They have a lot of experience. So if they tell me they want me to continue defending the belt at 66 pounds, maybe I’ll do that. But if they let me move up to 70 pounds, I’ll do that too and I’ll be very happy,” Topuria told Fox Sports Australia.
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As he continued speaking, Topuria avoided provocations, but stated that he was ready to become a double Ultimate champion after beating Makhachev.
“Personally, what I want to do is move up to 70kg, because I know I can become a two-weight world champion. Islam, he’s a great fighter, he’s the number one pound-for-pound. For me, it’s me. I’m the best fighter in the world, so I know I can do whatever I want to him, because I know I’m much better than him,” he concluded.
Ilia Topuria wants to face I. Makhachev in his next fight. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iliatopuria
Undefeated in his career, Topuria has already received positive feedback from Makhachev, who stated that he will face the Spanish-Georgian if the athlete manages to make weight to fight in the new category. Despite verbal negotiations between the athletes, Dana White avoids making any decisions regarding the possible fight.
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