Makhachev Says Yes To Topuria Fight On One Condition

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has said yes to an Ilia Topuria fight, provided it is on his terms.

Makhachev is coming off a huge 2025 where he made history by becoming a double champ. Islam dominated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November 2025 to secure a unanimous decision win, thus becoming the new welterweight champ. The win came after Islam vacated his lightweight title to chase history. The vacant title was then picked up by Topuria, who stopped Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to also become a double champ. Ilia is currently taking a break from the UFC due to his personal issues.

“I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I’m going through a difficult moment in my personal life. I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible. I don’t want to hold up the division. The UFC will make the matchups needed, and as soon as the matters are resolved I’ll let the UFC know I’m ready to begin my return,” Topuria said

A fight between Ilia and Islam at welterweight gives Ilia the chance to become the first ever three-weight champ. Makhachev revealed that cutting back down to 155 pounds is no longer an option, citing the physical toll of the weight cut and his desire for fresh challenges in his new division. Makhachev’s stance is that Topuria must be the one to move up if he wants the fight.

Makhachev Reacts

Makhachev believes Topuria still has to prove himself at lightweight, specifically by defending the belt against Arman Tsarukyan, who has been vocal about his claim to a title shot. Makhachev pointed out that Topuria has nothing to lose by moving up. If he falls short at welterweight, he can return to lightweight and continue his reign. While Topuria remains a future possibility, Makhachev has also said he wants to face Kamaru Usman. However, if the terms are right, Islam is happy to face Ilia.

“If Ilia wants to move up, then welcome. He can because he has nothing to lose by moving up. If he loses, he goes back down to lightweight, and that’s it. He’ll defend his belt there. I’ve already been the lightweight champion, and I’m definitely not going back down to 155 pounds,” Islam said