A former UFC BMF champion has offered his perspective on a potential superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria.
Reports had suggested that Ilia Topuria was prepared to relinquish his featherweight title and move up a weight class to challenge welterweight champion Islam Makhachev in a highly anticipated bout on June 14. However, this planned matchup reportedly fell through due to Makhachev suffering a hand injury.
UFC President Dana White, however, later clarified that a bout between Makhachev and Topuria was never officially planned for the rumored UFC Freedom 250 event.
Following the cancellation, Topuria is now expected to face two-time interim UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje on June 14. Details regarding Islam Makhachev’s return and his first title defense remain uncertain due to his injury.
Jorge Masvidal Breaks Down Potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria Superfight
Speaking on his podcast, Jorge Masvidal, known as “Gamebred,” offered his analysis of a hypothetical clash between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. Masvidal acknowledged Topuria’s extraordinary striking power, noting his ability to potentially knock out any opponent. However, he cautioned that if Makhachev successfully secures a takedown, the fight could quickly turn in the Dagestani fighter’s favor.
Masvidal emphasized Makhachev’s dominant performance in his welterweight debut at UFC 322, where he thoroughly controlled and defeated Jack Della Maddalena over five rounds.
He further elaborated that while both Topuria and Della Maddalena are elite strikers, Makhachev’s wrestling prowess represents a superior level of competition.
Masvidal elaborated on the potential dynamics, stating, “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.” He further highlighted Makhachev’s ground game dominance: “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.”
