Ilia Topuria Claims Islam Makhachev Is ‘Scared’ to Fight Him

Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is increasing his trash talk aimed at lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

Earlier this year, Topuria made a significant move by relinquishing his featherweight title to compete in the 155-pound division, with the goal of becoming a two-division champion. This decision led many to believe that Topuria would immediately be granted a shot at the lightweight title.

However, lightweight champion Islam Makhachev prefers that Topuria earns a title opportunity in the lightweight division, rather than receiving one automatically. Topuria appears displeased with this stance. In recent statements to reporters, Topuria essentially called Makhachev a coward, as the two top pound-for-pound fighters continue to move towards a potential clash.

“I am preparing to face Islam Makhachev,” Topuria stated. “My entire training focus is on either Islam or Charles Oliveira because I don`t see any other legitimate contenders in the division. So, these are the two names I am considering. Neither of them seems eager to step up and fight.”

“They often say that champions should fight anyone they are told to, but then they argue that I am too small to fight. When I change weight classes, they then claim I am now too small for this division as well. Following that, they insist I haven`t earned the title shot yet. These are clear indications of fear, and we all recognize it. But it`s understandable, I would likely be scared too in their position.”

Topuria is currently ranked as the No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings and was recognized as Fighter of the Year for his successful 2024. Despite these accolades, Topuria has only one featherweight title defense, which is less than the resume of a long-reigning champion who typically gets an immediate title shot when moving up in weight.

Meanwhile, Makhachev holds the record for the longest active title reign in the UFC, with four successful lightweight title defenses. He recently defeated Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January and has expressed his own interest in moving up to another weight class to pursue a second title.