Ilia Topuria took a bold step that left the world of mixed martial arts reeling. After securing the UFC featherweight championship under his belt, he astoundingly chose to give it up! The motivated martial artist is shifting his focus towards the lightweight division, evidently targeting the prestigious double champ title, becoming a hot topic across multiple platforms in the process. According to his team’s outline of the plan, Topuria is seemingly set to go up against Islam Makhachev for the championship title.
However, this anticipated match-up has not been without its fair share of controversy. The arena is divided, with a significant section of enthusiasts and analysts suggesting that El Matador should engage in a title eliminator bout first. On the other hand, Michael Bisping, a former UFC athlete himself, presents a different perspective altogether.
Bisping argues that pushing Topuria immediately into a title contender showdown could potentially hamper the business. The rationale behind this assertion lies in the risk associated with such a match. Should Topuria face defeat, the enchantment of the potential match for spectators might fade away. His exact words were, ‘Ilia is outstanding, yet if he takes a defeat against them [Justin Gaethje or other top lightweight challengers], a huge market opportunity could be lost.’
‘Ilia versus Islam, Ilia on the rise, Ilia still holding the featherweight champion title in many people’s hearts against the lightweight champion… that storyline holds weight. Should he lose to Gaethje, only to earn a shot a few bouts down the line, it wouldn’t generate the same level of interest,’ continued Bisping, emphasizing his perspective.
Bisping deducts that Makhachev would likely welcome the match with little hesitation. Understandably, just like Topuria, Makhachev also harbours the dream of reigning as a double champion. But in his case, his turn will only come when Belal Muhammad becomes the welterweight champion.
Meanwhile, the rumour mills churn out possible match-ups for Topuria to become a title contender. Amidst these speculations, his team has made their stance crystal clear, displaying consistent solidarity with the fighter’s ambition.
There are widespread views in the MMA community suggesting that Ilia Topuria may not have the necessary credentials to be eligible for an immediate title shot. A sentiment shared by many is that it may be more appropriate for him to challenge a top contender within the lightweight division at the outset.
However, team Topuria, standing firmly with their protege, rejects this narrative. They have recently expressed Ilia’s ambitions transparently by releasing a statement. The team communicates Ilia’s unswerving focus on the championship bout.
According to the statement issued by Topuria’s squad, ‘Ilia is driven towards a championship bout. He won’t participate in a contender fight against Tsarukyan or anybody else for that matter.’ Making it clear that Topuria won’t let any distraction waver his championship pursuit.
Therefore, it becomes clear that the lightweight division is currently brimming with exhilarating developments. What comes next will shape the future of this weight division, and the anticipation of this evolution makes it even more exciting.
There’s an air of suspense now enveloping the MMA circuit following this thrilling development. The next moves from all involved parties will determine the course ahead, adding a layer of curiosity to the prevailing scenario.