The simmering stress between UFC light-weight champion Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria has been introduced into sharp focus following provocative feedback from the featherweight king. Whereas Topuria has issued daring challenges and private taunts, Makhachev’s response has been notably measured, pointing to a doable “misunderstanding” and expressing a want for future reconciliation.
The feud escalated after Topuria, throughout interviews, claimed Makhachev was “afraid” to face him and made incendiary remarks about Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev’s legendary mentor and coach. Makhachev, the reigning P4P #1 fighter, has now publicly addressed the hostility, framing it not as an ordinary struggle promotion however as a private difficulty he hopes to resolve.
Topuria’s Fiery Problem: “I Will Submit Him”
Ilia Topuria, the reigning UFC featherweight champion, has been vocal in calling for a super-fight with Makhachev. His statements have gone past typical struggle hype, making them deeply private. He has questioned Makhachev’s resume and confidence, stating the champion has “by no means confronted somebody like me.”
Most provocatively, Topuria laid out a dramatic end, claiming he wouldn’t solely knock Makhachev out however would then “submit him” whereas symbolically “stepping on Khabib’s head.” This direct disrespect towards the revered Nurmagomedov and his workforce has been the core catalyst for the present standoff, turning a aggressive callout right into a heated private grievance.
Makhachev’s Calm Reply: A Name for Readability
In a stark distinction to the fiery rhetoric, Islam Makhachev responded with attribute composure. He expressed confusion over the supply of Topuria’s animosity, suggesting it stems from misinformation or a misunderstanding about his relationship with Workforce Khabib.
“He has some issues with us, with our workforce. I don’t know the place he will get this from,” Makhachev said. “We have to discover out what that’s. I hope we reconcile sooner or later.” Makhachev left the door open for a decision, whether or not via dialogue or, if mandatory, contained in the Octagon, demonstrating his give attention to legacy over spectacle.
A Future Tremendous-Battle in Limbo
The potential blockbuster matchup is presently on maintain for 2 key causes. First, Ilia Topuria is on a private hiatus from preventing and isn’t anticipated to return till at the very least the second quarter of 2026. Second, Makhachev is the champion of the 155-pound light-weight division, whereas Topuria holds the title at 145 kilos.
For the struggle to occur, Topuria would want to maneuver up in weight, a transfer he has expressed curiosity in, eyeing an opportunity to say the P4P crown. The UFC’s resolution to ebook an interim light-weight title struggle between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 additional complicates the instant title image for Makhachev.
The Stakes of a Rivalry Past the Belt
This feud represents greater than a possible champion-versus-champion conflict. It pits the stoic, dominant drive of Makhachev and the Dagestani wrestling college towards the brash, assured hanging prowess of Topuria. It’s a collision of types, personalities, and preventing philosophies.
Makhachev’s refusal to be baited right into a trash-talking warfare upholds the dignified repute of his camp. In the meantime, Topuria’s aggressive callouts are a calculated try and manufacture the most important struggle doable. Whether or not this results in a historic showdown or fades and not using a decision can be one of many compelling tales to observe in 2026.
Incessantly Requested Questions
What did Ilia Topuria say about Islam Makhachev?Topuria claimed Makhachev is “afraid” to struggle him. He boasted that he would knock Makhachev out after which submit him, including the inflammatory line that he would accomplish that whereas “stepping on Khabib’s head.”
How did Islam Makhachev reply?Makhachev responded calmly, suggesting Topuria’s hostility is predicated on a “misunderstanding” about his workforce. He expressed hope for future “reconciliation” however stays able to settle any difficulty within the cage if wanted.
Is the Makhachev vs. Topuria struggle booked?No, the struggle will not be booked. Topuria is on a private hiatus till at the very least 2026, and he would want to maneuver up from featherweight to problem Makhachev at light-weight.
What did Topuria say about Khabib Nurmagomedov?Topuria made a extremely disrespectful comment, saying he would submit Makhachev whereas “stepping on Khabib’s head,” which is seen as a grave insult to the retired champion and his workforce’s legacy.
When will Ilia Topuria struggle once more?Ilia Topuria is anticipated to return from his private hiatus after the primary quarter of 2026. The UFC has booked an interim light-weight title struggle in his absence.
