Can Ilia Topuria Actually Defeat Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira to Claim the Lightweight Crown

“Islam, if I want to, I can finish you. If I want to, I can knock you out. I’ll make it look easy. See you soon.” These words by Ilia Topuria came shortly after Islam Makhachev claimed victory at UFC 311, setting the stage for one of the most talked-about potential matchups in the lightweight division. Topuria, a fighter with big dreams of becoming a multi-weight champion, has his sights set on dethroning Makhachev. His next target? The lightweight division, where he’s not afraid to go through Charles Oliveira to secure a title shot.

Topuria vs Makhachev: The Battle of Featherweight and Lightweight Dominance

The featherweight champion, Topuria, has already made waves by blitzing through top contenders like Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway in 2024. Despite these dominant performances, the 155 lbs division is a different beast—one that’s far deeper and more dangerous. With Makhachev at the top of the lightweight food chain, we’re left wondering: Can Ilia Topuria transition seamlessly and claim a victory in this shark tank of elite fighters?

Ilia Topuria Did What Makhachev Couldn’t

While both Makhachev and Topuria faced the formidable Volkanovski, their victories were starkly different. Makhachev met Volkanovski twice in the Octagon—the first at UFC 284 and then again at UFC 294. Although Makhachev took the win both times, the fights were close, with Volkanovski pushing him to the limit. In contrast, Topuria made quick work of Volkanovski at UFC 298, knocking him out with a devastating right hook in the second round—something Makhachev could not replicate. This victory highlights Topuria’s striking power and sets him apart from the competition.

Can Topuria’s striking power dethrone Makhachev and Oliveira?

The burning question remains: Can Ilia Topuria’s striking power dethrone Makhachev and Oliveira? Topuria has shown an uncanny ability to finish fights, with an impressive 16-0 undefeated record and only 2 decisions in his career. Whether it’s Max Holloway, Volkanovski, or Bryce Mitchell, Topuria has maintained complete dominance. His performances speak for themselves, earning him 4 Performance of the Night bonuses and 1 Fight of the Night bonus in his last 5 bouts.

In contrast, Makhachev and Oliveira have shown vulnerabilities. Oliveira, once unbeatable, suffered a setback against Makhachev, losing the lightweight title after a submission. Meanwhile, Makhachev, while dominant, has faced opponents who weren’t always fully prepared, including short-notice fights against Renato Moicano and Volkanovski.

Topuria’s Ground Game: A Threat to Makhachev and Oliveira?

While Topuria is known for his exceptional striking, his ground game could be just as lethal. Having started his MMA journey in Greco-Roman wrestling from the age of 4, Topuria’s wrestling background is strong, and his training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu further bolsters his well-rounded game. On the other hand, Makhachev, a master of Sambo, combines wrestling, grappling, and striking to dominate his opponents. Oliveira, with his stellar BJJ, has proven effective on the ground, but Makhachev has shown that his wrestling can neutralize Oliveira’s submission attempts.

Topuria’s ability to handle both Makhachev’s Sambo and Oliveira’s BJJ will be pivotal. If he can survive the grappling exchanges, his striking can take over—and with his knockout power, he might just have the tools to dethrone the lightweight champions.

Physical Attributes and the Lightweight Move

With his frame at 5’8″ and a walk-around weight of 187 lbs, Topuria is well-positioned to make a successful transition into the lightweight division. While Makhachev and Oliveira both cut down from the 180-190 lbs range, Topuria’s natural weight makes him a strong contender. He has the advantage of reach, which could play a crucial role, as both Makhachev and Oliveira have struggled against shorter fighters like Volkanovski and Michael Chandler.

The Verdict: Can Topuria Conquer the Lightweight Division?

With an impressive striking record, a strong wrestling background, and the mental toughness to match, Ilia Topuria certainly has what it takes to take on Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira in the lightweight division. The question remains, though: Can his unique style and powerful hands be enough to overcome the established grappling of Makhachev and Oliveira?

One thing is certain: If Topuria decides to enter the lightweight division, we’re in for an explosive showdown that could shake the entire division to its core. The prospect of a new champion emerging from this battle is thrilling, and it’s only a matter of time before we find out whether Ilia Topuria can maintain his dominance.