Dana White’s announcement of Ilia Topuria’s ascension to lightweight has set the MMA world ablaze with speculation. The 155lbs division, long considered the UFC’s crown jewel, now faces a fascinating power struggle as the soon-to-be former 145lbs champ eyes Islam Makhachev’s throne. Standing firm atop the mountain, the Dagestani has drawn his line in the sand with unambiguous clarity: “Let him move up and earn his shot, and we’ll definitely fight.”

From the shadows of American Kickboxing Academy, Javier Mendez watched this drama unfold with the calculated eye of a chess grandmaster. “If that’s who they [UFC] offer if that’s what is being worked out and is on the table for Islam, then that’s what Islam is going to do,” he suggested, leaving the door cracked open just enough to keep fans wondering. However, the situation seems to be clarified for the moment.

As reported by Home of Fight (h/t TASS), the champion’s stance remains unmoved: Topuria must prove himself worthy in this new realm before challenging for its ultimate prize! Team Makhachev revealed that they didn’t agree to fight Ilia Topuria next. “Islam Makhachev still thinks Ilia Topuria needs to earn a lightweight title shot.” 

So, what will the Spanish-Georgian do now? The lightweight landscape is a kingdom in transition. Max Holloway, fresh from his granite chin being destroyed now patrols these waters alongside the man who did the deed. Meanwhile, Dustin Poirier, a battle-worn gladiator whose blood and sweat have christened the Octagon countless times, contemplates his final march. Moreover, top contenders like Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, and Justin Gaethje are all eying the Dagestani for their shots.

Moreover, Makhachev himself gazes toward the welterweight horizon as if the lightweight crown might soon become too small for his ambitions. The ball now rests in Dana White’s court—a promoter’s dilemma wrapped in a matchmaker’s riddle. Will he honor the sacred path of meritocracy that has long-defined championship opportunities? Or will he succumb to the siren song of immediate profits?

Senior MMA reporter Kevin Iole, who has strong ties to White, has suggested that a potential fight between Islam Makhachev and Topuria could be the “biggest non-Conor McGregor event.” Iole proposed that this fight might take place mid-year, aligning with UFC’s International Fight Week.

While some remain skeptical about whether Topuria vs. Makhachev will be the next matchup, others like Michael Bisping hold a different perspective. The former middleweight champ sees Islam Makhachev vs. ‘El Matador’ as the fight to make. “If you asked me to bet, I think Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria [is next],” Bisping remarked, highlighting the significant market potential both fighters bring to the table.

This view has been echoed by teams of former lightweight contenders as well. Let’s take a closer look at the unfolding conversation.

Charles Oliveira’s team’s take on the potential Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev fight

Weeks have passed! And still, there has been no official word from Dana White & Co. on the future of the 155lbs division. This has left many fans questioning the situation. #2 ranked 155lbs contender Charles Oliveira’s coach, Diego Lima, believes the Spanish expert is no fool to relinquish his featherweight title without the assurance of a guaranteed title shot. Oliveira, whose name has also been mentioned as a potential challenger for the Dagestani prospect after their originally scheduled rematch at UFC 294, was forced to withdraw due to an eye injury.

Lima recently shared his perspective on the potential Topuria vs. Makhachev matchup. While speaking to Alvaro Colmenro, he strongly suggested that it should be the next fight to make. He stated, “Ilia Topuria hasn’t vacated the featherweight title without some compromise, without some advanced negotiation. I think Topuria only moves up to fight for the belt.”

Ex–UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub echoed this viewpoint. He highlighted that Topuria’s decision to move up to 155lbs likely came with the expectation of securing a title shot. “You think Ilia just said, ‘I’ll give up the belt and face anyone’? No way. I’m certain he made that move knowing he’s getting a shot at Islam,” Schaub emphasized.

What do you think about Islam Makhachev’s latest comments regarding a potential fight with Ilia Topuria? Is it a wise decision, or just another publicity move to create hype? Do you believe ‘El Matador’ will be the next challenger for the reigning champion? Share your thoughts below.