Topuria’s Victory and Makhachev’s Reaction

Following Ilia Topuria’s knockout win against Charles Oliveira, he has not only clinched the lightweight title but also, according to some rankings, replaced Islam Makhachev as the pound-for-pound king. Makhachev suggests that this shift is a strategic move by the UFC to promote a potential future fight between him and Topuria.

The rivalry between Makhachev and Topuria has been escalating, with the Spanish fighter expressing his desire to face Makhachev in the ring. Topuria’s recent victory has intensified this rivalry, adding fuel to the speculation of a future showdown.

Islam Makhachev’s dominance in the lightweight division previously earned him widespread recognition as the pound-for-pound number one fighter. This recognition came even amidst support for heavyweight fighter Jon Jones. Jones’ subsequent retirement further solidified Makhachev’s position at the top.

However, after Topuria’s impressive knockout victory at UFC 317, he not only secured the lightweight title but also ascended to the pound-for-pound king status.

Makhachev vacated the lightweight title to pursue a challenge against Jack Della Maddalena in the welterweight division. He believes the change in rankings is a deliberate attempt to generate buzz around a potential fight with Topuria.

Makhachev stated, “Well, it’s marketing. They’re doing it on purpose to promote this fight. People are already interested in it so if they do it right, we’ll be fighting for the number one spot in the rankings.”

Topuria initially challenged Makhachev, who was on a 12-0 winning streak. However, after Maddalena’s victory over Makhachev’s close friend Belal Muhammad, Makhachev shifted his focus to welterweight, leading the UFC to schedule Topuria vs. Oliveira.