Islam Makhachev Accuses Ilia Topuria of Ducking Toughest Rival Arman Tsarukyan

Instead, Topuria expressed interest in fighting Paddy Pimblett, even sharing an intense and widely discussed face-off with him recently. The Georgian-Spanish champion claimed a Pimblett fight is currently the biggest matchup available, carrying massive pay-per-view interest worldwide.

According to experts like Dan Hooker, Pimblett represents a much easier stylistic challenge for Topuria compared to the dangerous Tsarukyan. Topuria refusing to fight Tsarukyan has drawn comparisons to Jon Jones allegedly avoiding Tom Aspinall prior to retirement. Islam Makhachev has already stated his willingness to drop back down in weight and destroy the explosive knockout specialist.

The fighter has revealed that all the drama between them is to make the superfight, which has huge pay-per-view potential. ‘El Matador’ has already denied him a direct title shot, but this call will be made by the UFC. However, before all that, the Dagestani must secure victory in his scheduled fight at Madison Square Garden later this year.

Islam Makhachev’s best tool to win at UFC 322

Recently, Dana White officially announced one of the most anticipated bouts of 2022, featuring Islam Makhachev against Jack Della Maddalena. Makhachev enters UFC 322 as the betting favorite, riding an impressive 15-fight winning streak, showcasing elite wrestling and submission skills.

The Dagestani star has already started his training camp. From his recent images online on social media, he appears visibly larger and remains in top shape ahead of his welterweight debut in November.

As expected, Makhachev is being trained by former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who understands the threat JDM presents. Coach Javier Mendez recently spoke about the fight, praising Makhachev’s unique skillset and explaining why he surpasses every fighter he has ever trained.

I think the biggest thing on our side is he’s very strong. Very strong. He’s super, super strong. Out of all my lightweights, he is the strongest one out of all of them. I don’t recall one lightweight stronger than him. Not even close, he’s the strongest. So, out of everybody I have, he’s the guy that has the best opportunity to handle the strength of the bigger guys.

Javier Mendez via Submission Radio 

Mendez believes Makhachev must win this crucial bout or risk sinking among other dangerous welterweight title contenders. Sean Brady, currently campaigning hard for his own title shot, isn’t happy about Makhachev suddenly disrupting the competitive 170-pound division.

On the other hand, former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has expressed interest in fighting the winner of JDM vs. Makhachev. Even Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Garry could become the next challenger in line, and it all depends what happens at UFC 322.