“Only Topuria Can KO Islam” – Volkanovski’s Statement Ignites Heated Debate!

The MMA world is buzzing with controversy after Alexander Volkanovski made a bold statement:

“Only Ilia Topuria can knock out Islam Makhachev.”

This unexpected declaration has sparked intense discussions among fans, fighters, and analysts, dividing opinions on whether Topuria is the man to finally dethrone Makhachev, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion.

But is there any truth to Volkanovski’s claim?

In this deep dive, we’ll analyze:

Islam Makhachev’s dominance and why he’s so hard to beat.

Ilia Topuria’s skill set and whether he really poses a threat.

Volkanovski’s perspective—why does he believe this?

Expert reactions—how the MMA world has responded.

So, does Topuria truly have the power and skill to KO Makhachev, or is Volkanovski simply stirring the pot? Let’s break it all down!

Islam Makhachev: The Unstoppable Lightweight King

A Legacy of Dominance

Since taking the throne as UFC Lightweight Champion, Islam Makhachev has been nothing short of dominant. With an elite wrestling pedigree, suffocating pressure, and ever-improving striking, he has dismantled some of the best lightweights and featherweights in the world.

His coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, declared that Makhachev would “rule the lightweight division for years,” and so far, he’s been proving it.

Key Wins That Define His Reign

Vs. Charles Oliveira (UFC 280) – A masterclass performance where Makhachev dominated and submitted the former champion.
Vs. Alexander Volkanovski (UFC 284 & 294) – Two back-to-back wins against the featherweight GOAT, proving his adaptability and striking power.
Vs. Arman Tsarukyan & Dan Hooker – Showcasing his grappling control and fight IQ.

Why Makhachev is So Hard to Beat

Elite Grappling – His Dagestani wrestling makes him nearly impossible to take down or control.
Underrated Striking – Knocked out Volkanovski in their rematch with a devastating head kick.
Fight IQ – Adjusts his game plan mid-fight, making him unpredictable.

If Makhachev has shown any vulnerability, it’s against strong, explosive strikers. Could Ilia Topuria be the one to finally crack his armor?

Ilia Topuria: The Dark Horse with KO Power

Topuria’s Meteoric Rise

At just 27 years old, Ilia Topuria has taken the UFC by storm, emerging as one of the most dangerous strikers in the featherweight division. His flawless 15-0 record includes brutal knockouts, slick submissions, and an aggressive fight style that keeps opponents on the back foot.

Now, as the newly crowned Featherweight Champion, he has the power, speed, and confidence to potentially challenge Makhachev.

Topuria’s Most Notable Wins

Vs. Josh Emmett (UFC Jacksonville) – A one-sided striking clinic against a powerful featherweight contender.
Vs. Bryce Mitchell – Exposed and dominated a top-tier grappler.
Vs. Jai Herbert & Damon Jackson – Displayed his devastating KO power.

Does Topuria Have What It Takes to KO Makhachev?

Explosive Power – He flatlines opponents with a single punch.
Fast Hands & Precise Striking – Can land clean shots in tight exchanges.
BJJ Black Belt – His submission skills make him a dual threat.

But could he handle Makhachev’s relentless grappling?

Volkanovski’s Take: Why He Believes in Topuria

Alexander Volkanovski has fought both Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev. That means his opinion carries serious weight.

After being knocked out by Makhachev, Volkanovski acknowledged his striking power but also hinted that a fighter with superior boxing and KO ability could trouble the lightweight champ.

That’s where Topuria comes in.

✔ Volkanovski felt Topuria’s power firsthand.
✔ He believes Topuria’s boxing is sharper than Makhachev’s.
✔ He knows what it takes to beat Islam but didn’t execute it.

So, is he just hyping up a potential challenger, or does he truly believe Topuria could shock the world?

What the MMA World Thinks

Volkanovski’s statement has ignited a massive debate in the MMA community. Fighters, analysts, and fans have all weighed in.

Fighter & Analyst Reactions

Daniel Cormier (Former UFC Champion & Analyst)
“I don’t know, man. Islam’s striking is evolving. We just saw what happened to Volk.”

Henry Cejudo (Former Champ-Champ)
“Topuria’s got the hands, but Islam is a different beast. He’ll drag him into deep waters.”

Chael Sonnen (MMA Analyst)
“Volk is stirring the pot, but I love it. If Topuria wants Islam, that’s a fight I’d pay to see.”

Fan Reaction

“No way Topuria beats Islam. Makhachev would ragdoll him.”
“Topuria has the best boxing in the UFC right now. He would KO Islam if they stand and trade.”
“Volk is just trying to set up a future fight with Topuria. Smart move.”

The opinions are divided, but one thing is clear—this is a fight that people want to see.

How Would a Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight Play Out?

If the UFC ever books Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria, how would it unfold? Let’s analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and potential fight scenarios.

1. Striking Battle

Advantage: Topuria

If the fight stays standing, Topuria’s crisp boxing, KO power, and speed give him an edge. Makhachev has improved his striking, but he’s not on Ilia’s level in a pure boxing exchange.

2. Grappling & Wrestling

Advantage: Makhachev

If Islam can secure an early takedown, it could be a long night for Topuria. He may be a black belt in BJJ, but no one has been able to handle Makhachev’s wrestling pressure.

3. Cardio & Durability

Advantage: Makhachev

Topuria has shown great conditioning, but we’ve never seen him deep into championship rounds against an elite wrestler. Makhachev, on the other hand, has gone five rounds multiple times.

4. Mental Toughness & Championship Experience

Advantage: Makhachev

Islam has fought the best of the best and overcome adversity in high-pressure fights. Topuria is still relatively new to the spotlight.

Final Verdict: Could Topuria KO Makhachev?

Yes, but it won’t be easy.

If Topuria lands clean, he has the power to knock out Makhachev.
But Makhachev’s grappling, experience, and endurance give him the overall edge.

Prediction: If they fight, Makhachev likely grinds out a submission or decision win—but if Topuria connects early, he could shock the world with a highlight-reel KO.

Will This Superfight Happen?

Right now, Topuria is focused on defending his Featherweight title, while Makhachev is likely looking at a lightweight title defense against the next contender.

But if Topuria moves up to 155 lbs, this fight could become one of the most exciting matchups in UFC history.

What do YOU think? Could Topuria be the one to KO Makhachev? Let the debate continue!