Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev (Image Credits: Imagn)

UFC Veteran Explains Why Ilia Topuria Has a Real Shot at 155 – But Not At 170 Against Islam Makhachev

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Pavan Sharma | Last updated Feb 14, 2026 3:01 AM ET

Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria fight is something which the whole world wants to see. As both are now in different divisions, the fight seems difficult now. As everybody is looking for some possibility for this match, UFC veteran Beneil Dariush chimed in and said Topuria has his best chance at lightweight, while welterweight heavily favors Makhachev.

It’s predicted that Justin Gaethje will fight ‘El Matador’ next for the lightweight belt. Similarly, the Dagestani fighter also has to make a title defense at welterweight. And after that, fans might see the UFC working on this fight. Meanwhile, according to Dariush, the fight should not happen at 170 pounds. In his recent interview with REALMMATODAY, he said:

“I just think there’s a big size difference. The fight at 155 would be much better for Ilia Topuria. At 155, Ilia had a very good shot; at 170, I don’t think so. At 155, I would have put it 50-50; if anything, I would have probably favored Ilia because he doesn’t have to cut a lot of weight.”

Beneil Dariush says lightweight is Ilia’s best shot, while welterweight heavily favors Islam Makhachev

"I just think there's a big size difference. The fight at 155 would be much better for Ilia Topuria. At 155, Ilia had a very good shot; at 170, I don't think so. At 155, I… pic.twitter.com/kiODlKpg52
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) February 14, 2026

The UFC veteran explained that at 155 pounds, the fight would be much more competitive and possibly even lean in Topuria’s favor since he wouldn’t have to cut much weight. However, at 170, Dariush feels the physical gap would be too significant, giving the welterweight champ a clear advantage. Meanwhile, this fight is much-awaited by fans as both fighters often call each other out.

Islam Makhachev Open to Fighting Ilia Topuria at White House Event

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria (Photo By Imagn Images)

The White House card is something which almost all fighters are excited for and they want to be a part of it. However, many say Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje will be targeted for the White House. However, recently Islam Makhachev said he likes the idea of fighting the lightweight champion at the White House. In the recent interview with Telegrafs, he said:

“I like this idea, if UFC wants… I’m ready.”

Islam Makhachev says he likes the idea of fighting Ilia Topuria at the White House

“I like this idea, if UFC wants… I’m ready.”

(via @telegrafrs) pic.twitter.com/fLzBu4x7GZ
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 11, 2026

Fans are making AI videos of ‘El Matador’ and the Dagestani fighter facing off against each other. This hypes up the fight really well, and once UFC president Dana White also showed interest in it. This fight will definitely break records as everyone is super pumped.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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