A former UFC BMF kingpin has given his two cents on a potential Islam Makhachev vs.Ilia Topuriasuperfight.
Several sources claim that Topuria agreed to vacate his lightweight championship and move up to welterweight to fight champion Makhachev on June 14 at the White House. However, the 34-year-old had to pull out due to a hand injury.
🚨 Ilia Topuria was asked about fighting Islam Makhachev or Justin Gaethje at the White House and chose Islam Makhachev, per@arielhelwaniThe UFC found out late last week that Islam wouldn’t be available due to a hand injury, which is why they pivoted to Topuria vs Gaethjehttps://t.co/4OQyCAUo4lpic.twitter.com/Se9gyprUsa
Dana White has,however, made it clear thatMakhachev vs. Topuria wasnever meantto be a part of the UFC Freedom 250 mega card.
Topuria is now slated to fight current and two-time interim UFC lightweight championJustin Gaethjeon June 14.Islam Makhachev, on the other hand, is injured, as White mentioned, and there is no news on when he will return to make his first title defense.
On his podcast,Jorge Masvidal, while discussing a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria showdown, stated that while the Georgian-Spaniard has unbelievable power in his hands and can send anyone to the shadow realm, the moment Makhachev secures a takedown, it will most likely be all over for “El Matador.
Gamebred” highlighted how Makhachev, on hisUFC 322welterweight debut, ragdolled Jack Della Maddalena for five rounds and dethroned the Australian with ease.
He added that Topuria and “JDM” may be exceptional strikers, but the Dagestani wrestling maestro operates on another level.
“I could see Islam taking Ilia down and making his day very, very long, or Ilia getting in there, using his hands and catching him, because in my book, Ilia is maybe two notches faster than Makhachev, and his power is unreal, incomparable. But Makhachev on the ground doesn’t get tired, can submit you from anywhere, and is just so damn good at getting to your legs and making you work. Jack’s striking is second to none, and Islam played with him.” [h/t: Red Corner MMA]
Check out Jorge Masvidal’s comments below:
Source: LowKickMMA.com
