Josh Emmett Predicts Potential Difficulties for Ilia Topuria Against Bigger Lightweights

Josh Emmett, the only UFC fighter to last five rounds with Ilia Topuria, offers his unique insights into the former featherweight champion`s prospects in the lightweight division.

Topuria`s sole lightweight appearance in the UFC was in 2022 against Jai Herbert. Despite securing a spectacular knockout and a Performance of the Night bonus, he initially faced adversity, getting hurt by Herbert`s strikes.

While Topuria has undoubtedly evolved since then, Emmett, drawing from his own experience as a former lightweight, emphasizes the significance of size in the higher weight class.

“I definitely think larger lightweights could present problems for him,” Emmett commented regarding Topuria`s chances against bigger opponents. “He`s naturally a smaller guy, shorter with a less substantial frame. I believe I was either taller or just as tall as him, but with a much bigger build.”

To Topuria`s credit, he has consistently overcome size disadvantages in the featherweight division, maintaining an undefeated record and achieving numerous impressive finishes.

In his last two bouts, Topuria decisively defeated Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway, both considered among the greatest featherweights ever, and now aims for similar success at lightweight.

“He`s incredibly well-rounded and technically skilled,” Emmett noted. “He has a strong base in jiu-jitsu and wrestling, but his striking, particularly his boxing, is exceptionally refined and powerful. He`s talented, but I`m curious to see how he fares against the top lightweights.”

“I anticipate he`ll perform well, but I`m eager to watch him compete against the top three to five lightweights to truly assess his standing and performance against significantly larger and stronger opponents.”

Emmett believes Topuria is diligently preparing his body for the challenges of competing in a heavier weight division.

“Considering the timeframe, and knowing he took the Jai Herbert fight on short notice, if he has a proper training camp of three to four months, with his excellent team, strength and conditioning coaches, and resources, I`m confident they will have him optimally prepared and ready.”