According to Henry Cejudo, Khabib Nurmagomedov might be the reason why a potential superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria is not materializing.
Earlier this year, Topuria announced his plans to move up to the lightweight division and aim for a second title, suggesting he would vacate his featherweight belt. This sparked immediate speculation about a possible title shot against Makhachev. Topuria himself hinted at a promised title opportunity. However, Makhachev has appeared lukewarm to the idea, and Cejudo believes Nurmagomedov`s influence is the key factor.
Cejudo recounted a conversation with Nurmagomedov, stating, “I remember talking to Khabib, and Khabib said it’s not fair for Ilia to jump ahead and challenge Islam for the title when Islam has consistently faced contenders who moved up in weight.” Cejudo added, “I don’t think it will be Islam’s decision. I believe Khabib will step in and insist that Topuria must first defeat the top contender.”
“Khabib indicated that if Ilia defeats a No. 1 contender, then a fight could be considered. Personally, I believe Islam is willing to fight anyone, anytime, anywhere, as his motto at the PI suggests. However, I suspect Khabib Nurmagomedov will be the one to intervene and say no. Therefore, I predict the matchup will be Justin Gaethje versus Islam Makhachev at International Fight Week,” Cejudo speculated.
Makhachev currently holds the longest reign as lightweight champion in the UFC. In January, he surpassed the record for the most lightweight title defenses by defeating Renato Moicano at UFC 311. Despite his dominance, some critics point out that two of his title defenses were against Alexander Volkanovski, who was the featherweight champion at the time. This is why Makhachev has expressed reluctance to fight another featherweight champion and wants Topuria to first prove himself against a lightweight contender. Cejudo even proposed a potential opponent for Topuria.
“I think it’s possible they could match Ilia up against Dustin Poirier in Louisiana,” Cejudo suggested. “Charles Oliveira, in my opinion, seems hesitant to fight Ilia Topuria, stating he would only fight him as champion. I`m unsure of how much influence Oliveira has, but if a fighter declines to fight someone for a title shot because they previously had an opportunity and lost, they lack leverage. The UFC might sideline them. So, I can envision Ilia Topuria facing Dustin Poirier.”
“Dustin Poirier has mentioned he only wants to fight legends in his retirement fight, and Ilia Topuria recently declared himself a ‘Legend.’”
