Featherweight King Declares War on the Lightweight Division: “Islam Makhachev Is Nothing Compared to Me!”

Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria is making waves in Sydney, Australia, as he supports his older brother Aleksandre Topuria, who is set to compete on the UFC 312 preliminary card. While his brother prepares for battle, Topuria has been making headlines of his own with bold statements about his future ambitions inside the Octagon. The undefeated Spanish-Georgian fighter has his eyes locked on an even bigger challenge—moving up to lightweight and taking on the dominant Islam Makhachev.

In a recent interview with Fox Sports Australia, “El Matador” made it crystal clear: he wants the lightweight throne. But as always, it all depends on the UFC’s decision. The organization has the final say on whether Topuria will continue defending his featherweight title or be given the opportunity to pursue double-champ status.

Topuria Wants UFC Approval to Chase Makhachev

For Topuria, the idea of moving up to 155 pounds isn’t just an impulse—it’s a well-calculated ambition. He knows that the lightweight division is one of the most stacked weight classes in the UFC, and Islam Makhachev sits at the top as the reigning lightweight champion and the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

“This is something that I want to do. The UFC knows that, but at the end of the day, it’s up to them,” Topuria stated. “They know how to run the business. They have a lot of experience, so if they tell me to keep defending the belt in the 145 division, maybe I’ll do that. But if they let me go up to 155, I’ll do that too.”

His message is bold and direct—he’s ready to step into Makhachev’s division and prove he belongs among the elite at lightweight. However, whether the UFC will allow this move remains a mystery. Dana White and the UFC matchmakers carefully plan superfights, and they may have different plans for the rising star.

The Motivation? Facing the Best in the World

For Topuria, the move isn’t just about another belt; it’s about legacy. Right now, Islam Makhachev holds the prestigious No. 1 spot on the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. This title is a mark of dominance, signifying the best fighter across all weight classes. But Topuria? He believes he’s already the best fighter on the planet and wants to prove it inside the cage.

“I want to move up to 155 because I know for a fact that I can become a two-division world champion,” Topuria said. “Islam is a great fighter. He’s the No. 1 pound-for-pound for many people. But for me, it’s different. I’m the best fighter in the world. No one can match my skills, my confidence, and my ability to dominate inside the Octagon.”

A Future Superfight in the Making?

If the UFC greenlights this showdown, fans could witness an explosive clash between two of the sport’s most dominant forces. Topuria’s knockout power, elite striking, and unshakable confidence would be tested against Makhachev’s elite grappling, suffocating pressure, and championship experience.

A fight between Topuria and Makhachev would be one of the biggest superfights in recent history. The matchup would determine not only the best lightweight in the world but possibly the best fighter pound-for-pound.