Topuria Described As ‘Incredible, If Not The Best’

UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis has praised lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.

Du Plessis’ comments arrive after Topuria became a two-weight world champion after knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to win the vacant lightweight strap. The belt followed his success at lightweight, as Topuria joined some esteemed company of double champions such as Conor McGregor and Jon Jones.

Ilia could arguably have had the BMF belt after stopping Max Holloway, but the title was not on the line. Ilia has spoken about his desire to fight Islam Makhachev, who is expected to face Jack Maddalena for the welterweight belt next. An Islam win could give Ilia the chance to chase more greatness by adding a third belt, much to the praise of Du Plessis.

Du Plessis Reacts

“I’m so happy for him. We made our debuts on the same fight card. He was literally in my changing room. We were on the same trajectory, winning our titles one month apart, so I’m super happy for him. I think he’s one of those special characters who’s going to be a Hall of Famer, no doubt. He’s the first unbeaten guy to have two titles, so I rate him very highly as an all-round fighter. And obviously, his striking power, knocking out three legends – I think he’s incredible, and in my opinion, one of the best, if not the best in the UFC right now,” Du Plessis said

The proof is also there in the results. Before his lightweight title, Topuria had already established himself as the leading fighter in the featherweight division. He defeated Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 via a knockout, ending Volkanovski’s four-year reign as champion. He also gave Volk his first stoppage loss at the weight class.

Ilia followed that up by stopping Max Holloway at UFC 308 in the third round, given Max his first stoppage loss of his career. Those achievements have made Topuria overtake Islam as the best P4P fighter in the world. The speed at which he has managed to become a two-weight champion is also impressive. He is currently undefeated in the UFC, with a 9-0 record, setting him up as a future Hall of Famer. Fans also held Topuria in high regard.