UFC star Ilia Topuria has a clear message for Islam Makhachev should the former champion ever decide to return to the lightweight division: he won`t receive any special treatment.
Topuria is currently set to challenge Charles Oliveira for the vacant 155-pound title at UFC 317 in June. While he`s enthusiastic about the opportunity to become a champion, securing a direct fight against Makhachev was his initial goal. However, Makhachev has opted to move up to welterweight to face Jack Della Maddalena, though he has hinted at a potential future return to lightweight to reclaim his belt.
Just as Makhachev seemingly showed little urgency to face Topuria when “El Matador” moved up from featherweight, Topuria is now mirroring that stance. He insists that if the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter wants another lightweight title shot, he`ll have to work his way back into contention.
During a press conference promoting his upcoming fight, Topuria reflected on the situation. “You know from the beginning, he wanted to give the impression that he had some sort of decision [to make],” Topuria stated. He recalled Makhachev saying he wouldn`t vacate his title, then questioned who ultimately got their way. Topuria`s direct challenge: “So after this fight when I have the belt, he can get in line, which is a long one and someone’s eyes will be shining.”
Makhachev did initially claim he wouldn`t vacate his lightweight title despite moving up, but the situation evolved differently. Similar to Topuria relinquishing his featherweight belt upon moving up, Makhachev ultimately vacated his 155-pound championship to fully pursue the welterweight challenge.
Neither fighter currently holds a belt in two divisions simultaneously. Topuria, however, has firmly committed his future to the lightweight division, citing the considerable difficulty of making the 145-pound featherweight limit.
While Makhachev`s long-term plans regarding lightweight remain uncertain, Topuria appears more than ready to turn the tables. He is demanding that the former champion earn his place back in the title picture through merit, rather than expecting an immediate opportunity.
The verbal jabs between Topuria and Makhachev continue to escalate, but a clash between them is not scheduled next, and it remains unclear if or when this anticipated showdown might eventually happen.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely