Is Makhachev Ducking Topuria?

Islam Makhachev has been accused of ducking Ilia Topuria, but is that claim justified? 

Makhachev is the current UFC Lightweight Champion, who defended his belt in his last fight after submitting Renato Moicano at UFC 311. That was his fourth defense of the belt after he secured it against Charles Oliveria at UFC 280 in 2022. Two victories over Alexander Volkanovski, a win over Dustin Poirier and Renato solidified his position as one of the best P4P fighters. Makhachev was heavily linked with Topuria, who vacated to move up to lightweight after securing the featherweight belt.

Sonnen On Islam

Ilia stopped Max Holloway in his last fight at UFC 308. However, Islam will vacate his belt to likely take on Jack Della Maddalena at welterweight for his belt. Chael Sonnen felt Islam was ducking, but here is why it’s not the case?

“Chasing hype and money is not the same as chasing greatness in sport. But average athlete, who built his way to the top with cheap trash talk, won’t understand that. So please [sit] and watch how others doing it, uncle Chael. #doublechamp,” Islam stated

“So don’t be shy and don’t pick fake fights w/me to get my attention,” Sonnen wrote. “Your HERO is my ACOLYTE. So is his NEMESIS. SO are YOU,” Sonnen

Makhachev’s Case

Islam has spoken about his aim of winning a title in a second weight class. That was made more difficult as Belal Muhammad had been holding the belt. Islam and Belal are close, having trained with each other. Both fighters were reluctant to face each other. However, Belal’s defeat to Maddalena gave Islam the chance to chase a second belt. 

Makhachev is also on record, saying that he has given smaller fighters enough of a chance. Islam defeated Volkanovski on two occasions when the Australian moved up from featherweight. Beating Topuria would be the same thing, leading to accusations that he is too small. 

Topuria has also done nothing to justify a title shot in his first fight. Other contenders in the division, such as Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett and Arman Tsarukyan, may have more of a claim. Equally, Topuria has now been given the chance to face off against Oliveira for the vacant belt at UFC 317. 

Topuria has also not ruled out a fight at welterweight. That would depend on Islam securing the belt and giving Ilia a chance to potentially become a three-weight world champion, depending on how the results play out. The fight may still happen, but for now, fans will have to wait.