Remember earlier this year, in January at UFC 311, when reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev’s opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, pulled out just days before the fight which left the headline bout in limbo? The UFC quickly chose ranked #9 contender Renato Moicano on short notice. The Dagestani then took to X, sharing a message with his fans about what being a titleholder means. He wrote, “What does this title represent? It means you’re the best in the world, and if you’re the best in the world, it doesn’t matter who’s going to be standing across from you. What do I say? No? NEVER. Let’s do this!”

However, Makhachev’s tone shifted when it came to the soon-to-be former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. But how? Well, let’s see! Last month, Dana White made an announcement on social media that ‘El Matador’ would be moving up to 155lbs, aiming for two-division glory to emulate what Conor McGregor did at UFC 205 in the promotion’s debut event at Madison Square Garden. Yet, the Spaniard’s path hasn’t been as seamless as expected. Rumors began circulating about a potential Makhachev vs. Topuria fight in June, coinciding with International Fight Week and UFC 317.

Makhachev and his team, however, disagree with the idea of Topuria receiving an immediate title shot. ‘Team Khabib’ made it clear that ‘El Matador’ must first prove himself against other top-ranked contenders, stating, “Let him move up and earn his shot.” A recent TASS Sports report reiterated this view; Makhachev’s team confirmed, “Islam has not agreed to this fight. He maintains the position that Topuria needs to earn a title shot at 155.” For former welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, the situation appears different. In a comment on Happy Punch’s Instagram post, Woodley wrote, “Naw, that ain’t the reason.”

So, what will Ilia Topuria do? It’s not just Islam Makhachev and his team’s position that’s standing in the way; the lightweight division’s talent pool is also a major obstacle. Justin Gaethje ranked #3 in the UFC, is now a potential opponent for the champ. Despite both having been in the same division for a while, Makhachev and ‘The Highlight’ have never faced each other. The former interim champ solidified his spot as a contender earlier this month, outsmarting Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313 with a unanimous decision victory. Moreover, Makhachev’s team is also in favor of facing Gaethje in the near future.

A further obstacle for Topuria is that Makhachev has already defended his 155-pound title a record-breaking four times. With his confidence at an all-time, the Dagestani also seemed focused on moving up (to 170lbs or 185lbs) to realize his dream of attaining dual championship glory.

While Dana White and the UFC remain in control of the decision-making process, how they will address the current congestion in the lightweight division is still unclear. However, former UFC fighter and analyst Daniel Cormier has a potential solution to resolve the situation.

Daniel Cormier offers a solution for Dana White as Islam Makhachev hesitates to face Ilia Topuria

The situation in the lightweight division mirrors that of the flyweight division, where champions Islam Makhachev and Alexandre Pantoja have both remained undefeated for an extended period. However, the major challenge with their reigns is the prolonged duration, with both holding their titles for a significant period. This situation is more acute at 155lbs considering that the 125lbs division lacks the same level of depth as lightweight.

Now, looking at the division, Daniel Cormier has weighed in on its future, which is currently in flux. Contenders like Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, and Ilia Topuria are all vying for a shot at Islam Makhachev, each with their own motivations. This adds to the growing confusion and uncertainty surrounding the title picture.

In response, DC has suggested a clear path forward to help Dana White and the UFC navigate this situation. Cormier proposed, “Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev. Yes. Book it. Gaethje vs. Tsarukyan. Book it. Whoever wins fights Makhachev. That’s it, right there. That’s it. Topuria gets the shot. Tsarukyan, Gaethje. Winner gets the title fight. We’re back in line at 155.”

With the future of the lightweight division uncertain, it’s important to consider various opinions. So, what do you think about Tyron Woodley’s comment on the social media post? Does Ilia Topuria deserve an immediate title shot, or do you believe Islam Makhachev and his team are avoiding this matchup? Feel free to share your thoughts below.