Topuria Advised Against Welterweight Move

Ben Vickers, the coach of Jack Della Maddalena, has cautioned Ilia Topuria regarding a potential move to the welterweight division. He believes that it would be an unwise choice for the current featherweight champion to contemplate a fight against Maddalena.

Both Topuria and Maddalena have gained recognition for their impressive striking capabilities.

Topuria, maintaining an unblemished record of 17-0, has secured knockout victories against notable opponents, including Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira.

Similarly, Jack Della Maddalena boasts four knockout wins within the UFC.

While Topuria has frequently hinted at a move towards the 170-pound division, Vickers, the welterweight champion’s coach, acknowledges similarities in the fighters’ styles but notes Topuria’s smaller physique compared to his fighter.

Maddalena’s coach stated that Topuria’s transition to the welterweight division to challenge his student would be ill-advised.

Vickers commented, “[Ilia] is the same height as me, and I’m not tall. He should remain in his current division. It would be a mistake for him to move up and face Jack. They are essentially similar fighters; however, Jack possesses a larger frame.”

He further added, “They both excel in many of the same areas, and I admire Ilia. He is one of my favorite fighters to watch because his fighting style resembles Jack’s.

“They share many similarities, but I don’t believe it would be wise for him to jump up two weight classes to fight Jack; however, that decision rests with him. If he chooses to do so, I respect that.”