Makhachev Mocks Topuria’s #1 P4P Ranking: ‘It’s Just a Marketing Gimmick!’

The pound-for-pound throne in the UFC is hotly contested, and now it’s become the subject of sharp ridicule — courtesy of Islam Makhachev, the former lightweight king. After Ilia Topuria surged to the top of the rankings with a series of impressive wins and was crowned the new No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world, not everyone in the MMA world was ready to celebrate — especially Makhachev.

In a pointed interview, Makhachev brushed off Topuria’s new status, calling it nothing more than “marketing” designed to hype up the UFC’s next big money fights. The Dagestani superstar has now shifted his focus from defending lightweight gold to pursuing greatness at welterweight, with a super fight against Jack Della Maddalena slated for November.

“It’s marketing,” Makhachev said. “They’re doing it on purpose to promote this fight. So they do it right, and we’ll be fighting for the #1 spot in the rankings.”

A New Era Without Makhachev at 155? Not So Fast.

When Makhachev was forced to vacate the lightweight title to chase welterweight glory, Ilia Topuria seized the moment. With his thunderous finish of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, the Georgian-Spanish fighter catapulted himself to the top of the pound-for-pound list, leapfrogging Makhachev.

But according to Islam, Topuria’s rise is premature, and driven more by the UFC’s marketing needs than his actual résumé.

“He beat Charles, I respect that,” Makhachev said. “But one or two wins don’t make you the best in the world. Not yet.”

Makhachev’s criticism echoes a larger debate in MMA circles: Is Ilia Topuria really the best fighter in the UFC right now, or is he simply the most marketable at the moment?

Makhachev vs. Della Maddalena: The Real P4P Showdown?

Islam Makhachev isn’t just talking — he’s ready to prove his point inside the Octagon. The planned clash with Jack Della Maddalena at 170 pounds is being labeled by Makhachev as the real battle for pound-for-pound supremacy.

Della Maddalena is riding an impressive streak in the welterweight division, and a victory over him would make a strong case for Makhachev’s spot at the top. For Islam, the formula is simple: if Topuria isn’t going to defend his status against top contenders, then it’s up to him to reclaim the top spot by force.

“My next fight will decide who’s really the best. Not some ranking done in the UFC office,” Makhachev stated bluntly.

Ilia Topuria Eyes Welterweight Glory — But Faces a Gauntlet First

Topuria, meanwhile, has ambitions of his own at 170. The reigning lightweight champion has expressed interest in moving up to challenge the winner of Makhachev vs. Della Maddalena, which UFC President Dana White has already signaled support for.

But it won’t be a straight shot.

Topuria is expected to defend his lightweight title first, with names like Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, and Arman Tsarukyan looming as potential challengers. Each presents a different kind of threat:

• Justin Gaethje: The most explosive of the three, known for his leg kicks, brawling style, and unbreakable will.

• Paddy Pimblett: A fan-favorite and media darling, though still considered a step below elite competition.

• Arman Tsarukyan: The dark horse of the division — technical, relentless, and recently bold enough to challenge Topuria with a $500K bet.

Dana White has made it clear that Topuria must get through at least one of them before moving up. The UFC wants to build Topuria into a true two-division star, but not without legitimate tests along the way.

The Battle for Legacy and Marketability

This isn’t just about belts anymore. Makhachev vs. Topuria has evolved into a battle of legacy vs. hype, of proven dominance vs. recent stardom. Makhachev built his reputation with multiple title defenses, including over Alexander Volkanovski, and was long seen as the most dominant fighter in the UFC after Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement.

Topuria, on the other hand, exploded onto the scene, finishing top contenders and capturing gold in highlight-reel fashion. He’s younger, flashier, and speaks the kind of confident, brash language that sells fights — even if it doesn’t always win respect in the locker room.

Makhachev sees through that.

“Let’s see what he does next,” he said. “You can’t run forever. Sooner or later, you fight someone like me or Gaethje — and we’ll see if that #1 spot is real.”

Fans Are Divided

The MMA world is split right down the middle:

• Makhachev loyalists argue that his dominance, activity, and all-around skillset still make him the true No. 1.

• Topuria fans say that his finishes, undefeated record, and charisma prove he’s ushering in a new era.

On social media, the debate is intense:

• 🔥 @FightNews: “Islam’s not wrong. P4P rankings have always been a popularity contest.”

• 🥇 @TopuriaEra: “Cry more, Islam. You ran from 155 and lost the throne. Deal with it.”

• 🤔 @MMA_Purity: “Topuria’s talented, no doubt. But let’s not forget Makhachev’s body of work.”

What’s Next?

• Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena in November is the next big chapter. If Makhachev wins impressively, expect immediate talk of his return to the P4P throne.

• Ilia Topuria must pick his next move carefully. A win over someone like Gaethje or Tsarukyan will solidify his standing and quiet the doubters. A misstep could cost him both the belt and his new title as “best in the world.”

Conclusion: The #1 Spot Is Up for Grabs

In the UFC, pound-for-pound supremacy is about more than just wins — it’s about timing, perception, and who can back their words with action. Islam Makhachev has made it clear he believes Ilia Topuria’s reign is manufactured and temporary.

Now, all eyes are on November — and beyond — to see who will emerge as the true king of all divisions. Whether it’s Topuria defending his honor, or Makhachev reclaiming his throne, one thing is certain:

The battle for pound-for-pound supremacy has never been more personal — or more entertaining.