The MMA World Is Shaken as a Veteran Sides with Islam Makhachev on Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about fighters in the UFC, and it’s not just fans who are taking notice. Even seasoned veterans and established champions are acknowledging his skills, including Islam Makhachev, who recently expressed his agreement with a fellow UFC veteran about Topuria’s incredible potential. This recognition is not just a passing comment—it’s a validation of Topuria’s dominance and future success inside the octagon.

The Meteoric Rise of Ilia Topuria

Topuria has carved out an impressive career in the UFC, showing off his versatility and sheer dominance over opponents. Unlike many rising stars who rely on a singular skill, Topuria is a well-rounded warrior, combining exceptional striking with a rock-solid grappling game. His aggressive style and ability to dictate the pace of fights make him a unique force in the featherweight division. From the moment he stepped into the octagon, Topuria made it clear that he was not there just to participate—he was there to take over. His unwavering confidence, knockout power, and unshakable belief in his abilities have made him a fighter that no one can ignore. With each fight, he continues to silence doubters and prove that he belongs among the elite.

Islam Makhachev’s Surprising Take on Ilia Topuria

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, is known for his calculated approach to fights and his meticulous breakdowns of opponents. He is not the type to hand out compliments lightly. That’s why it was surprising to many when he openly stated that Topuria “has a great point” when it comes to his skillset and mindset.

This endorsement from a fighter of Makhachev’s caliber speaks volumes about Topuria’s potential dominance in the UFC. When one of the best grapplers and tacticians in the sport acknowledges another fighter’s ability, it’s a signal that Topuria is far more than just hype—he’s the real deal. Makhachev’s agreement with the UFC veteran who spoke highly of Topuria only adds more weight to this claim.

What Makes Ilia Topuria Different?

So, what exactly sets Topuria apart from the rest of the featherweight division? The answer lies in his ability to seamlessly blend multiple disciplines while maintaining a high level of confidence and composure. Here are the key factors that make him such a dangerous fighter:

Elite Striking: Topuria possesses knockout power in both hands, and his striking accuracy makes him a major threat standing up.

Relentless Grappling: Unlike many strikers, Topuria has the ability to hold his own on the ground, neutralizing ojuunents with solid wrestling and jiu-jitsu skills.

Unmatched Fight IQ: His ability to read his opponents and make in-fight adjustments gives him a strategic edge.

Aggression and Confidence: He fights with the mindset of a champion, never backing down and always pushing forward.

These traits have made him a nightmare for anyone in his division. Fighters who underestimate him quickly find themselves on the receiving end of devastating strikes or a suffocating ground game.

The Veteran Agreement: Why Topuria is the Real Deal

A respected UFC veteran also weighed in on the discussion, reinforcing Makhachev’s belief that Topuria is on a trajectory toward greatness. This veteran, who has seen countless fighters rise and fall, pointed out that Topuria’s technical skills and mental fortitude make him one of the most complete fighters in the game today.

Many up-and-coming fighters show promise, but few receive this level of recognition from established UFC legends. When seasoned fighters who have fought at the highest levels begin acknowledging a new contender’s ability, it’s a sign that he is destined for something much greater.

The Challenges That Await Ilia Topuria

Despite his rapid rise, Topuria still has significant challenges ahead. The featherweight division is stacked with elite talent, and he will need to prove that he can maintain his momentum against the best in the world. Fighters like Max Holloway, Alexander Volkanovski, and Yair Rodriguez still pose major threats, and it will take everything Topuria has to overcome them.

However, with backing from names like Islam Makhachev and UFC veterans, it’s clear that he is already being viewed as a future title contender. If he can continue to refine his skills and remain focused, there is little doubt that he will reach the top.

Could Ilia Topuria Be the Next UFC Champion?

With his undeniable talent and the growing support from high-level fighters, Topuria’s path to a UFC title seems almost inevitable. His ability to adapt, his relentless work ethic, and his hunger for greatness set him apart from many fighters in his division. However, winning a UFC championship requires more than just raw skill—it requires strategic fight selection, mental resilience, and the ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.

If Topuria can continue to rack up dominant performances, it’s only a matter of time before he earns a title shot. Whether that moment comes in the next year or further down the road, one thing is certain: he is on a direct path toward UFC greatness.

What This Means for the Featherweight Division

If Topuria ascends to the top, it will have major implications for the featherweight division. A new champion with his skill set could shake up the rankings and force other top contenders to evolve their game. Fighters like Brian Ortega, Arnold Allen, and Josh Emmett will have to prepare for a new kind of threat—one who can seamlessly transition between striking and grappling while maintaining an aggressive pace.

Thisuperfights lead to high-profile super fights down the line. Imagine a matchup between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev—a battle between two of the most well-rounded fighters in the UFC. With Makhachev’s grappling dominance and Topuria’s versatility, such a fight could be one of the most exciting in UFC history.

The Future of UFC Could Belong to Ilia Topuria

When UFC veterans and champions like Islam Makhachev acknowledge a fighter’s greatness, it’s worth paying attention. Ilia Topuria is not just a rising star—he’s a legitimate force in the making. He has the skills, the mindset, and the backing of some of the sport’s most respected names. If he continues on this path, it’s only a matter of time before he holds UFC gold.

The question is not if he will become a champion, but when. And when that moment comes, the entire UFC world will have to take notice.