Khabib Nurmagomedov has explained why a fight between his protégé Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria is probably not going to take place.
A highly anticipated match between Makhachev and Topuria has been discussed since Topuria relinquished his featherweight title in February.
However, this fight has not yet materialized, with reports suggesting that Makhachev wants Topuria to demonstrate his abilities in the lightweight division before a title fight is considered.
According to Nurmagomedov, Makhachev, currently considered the top pound-for-pound fighter, has hesitations about fighting Topuria because he is unproven in the lightweight category.
He stated to Adam Zubayraev: “Imagine if Islam defeats Topuria, and then Topuria competes again and loses.
"Essentially, Topuria would be considered insignificant at 155lbs.”
"And [then], Islam would have defeated someone who was nobody in the 155lb division, which wouldn`t do much for Islam’s legacy.”
Makhachev has shown no signs of weakness in his recent title defenses against Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano.
However, critics have pointed out that his title defenses have been against fighters who were primarily featherweights.
This point seems to be a major consideration for Makhachev when thinking about a potential fight with Topuria, despite the potential attention and financial benefits it could bring.
Nurmagomedov added: “Islam is not interested in fighting Topuria, Volkanovski, or a short-notice replacement like Moicano.
"Islam aims to compete against significant names who have truly earned it, fighters who have been established in the 155 division for a considerable time.”
Nurmagomedov`s remarks quickly reached Topuria, who responded confidently on X.
He wrote: "Khabib is aware that I am the one who will take the belt from Islam. That’s the only reason he doesn’t want Islam to fight me."
Nurmagomedov`s comments about Topuria challenging Makhachev for the lightweight title come shortly after Dana White provided an update on Topuria`s next fight.
During the UFC 314 post-fight press conference, White said: "We are working on it.
"We have a lot to handle. He is one of the biggest stars in the company.
"If we had finalized plans, we would have already announced them."
Makhachev has not fought since his dominant victory over Moicano in his title defense at UFC 311 in January.
Meanwhile, Topuria has been inactive since his victory over Max Holloway at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi last October.
