UFC Legend Reveals He'd Like to See Khabib Nurmagomedov's Protégé Fight Ilia Topuria

Khabib at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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The UFC may be witnessing the emergence of another promising name. For MMA legend Demetrious Johnson , the pupil of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev , Magomed Zaynukov , already has the conditions to face a great challenge against the former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg), Ilia Topuria , in an upcoming round. The Russian debuted last Saturday (25), in Abu Dhabi, with a victory by unanimous decision.

On his YouTube channel, 'Mighty Mouse' stated that he believes the undefeated prospect is ready to take a big step within the event, despite having only one fight in the organization. According to the former flyweight champion (up to 56,7 kg), Zaynukov's style and Topuria's current form make the potential matchup an interesting option for the division.

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“I love that fight. It’s a beautiful matchup. It’s interesting because Ilia Topuria is coming off a loss to Justin Gaethje , and there are many great fights for him in the 70kg and 66kg divisions. I would love to see that matchup against Chanco,” said Demetrious Johnson.

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Despite his limited experience in the octagon, Magomed Zaynukov arrived at the UFC surrounded by expectations due to his connection with Khabib and Makhachev's team. The Russian maintains an undefeated record of nine wins and drew attention for the maturity he displayed in his first appearance in the world's largest MMA organization.

On the other side, Ilia Topuria seeks to rebuild his career after losing the lightweight title to Justin Gaethje . The Georgian, who was also the featherweight champion (up to 65,8 kg), remains one of the most popular names and faces great challenges in both weight classes.

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A duel between Topuria and Zaynukov would pit the Georgian's experience, knockout power, and aggression against the high level of Muay Thai and undefeated record of the Dagestani representative. Even though it's considered a bold matchup given the athletes' current career stage, Demetrious Johnson 's suggestion reinforces the high expectations surrounding the UFC's new prospect.