When it comes to legendary winning streaks in the UFC, fans are spoiled for choice. But as of September 8, 2025, one name has climbed to the very top of the conversation—Ilia Topuria. With a pristine 17-0 record and a string of emphatic knockouts over some of the sport’s most decorated champions, Topuria has earned high praise from none other than UFC commentator Joe Rogan, who recently called his run "the greatest three-fight win streak of all time." The MMA world is buzzing, but not just with admiration—controversy and rivalry are swirling, too.
Joe Rogan’s assessment isn’t just hyperbole. On a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan broke down Topuria’s meteoric rise, citing his devastating knockout of Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298 to claim the featherweight title as the start of this iconic run. Topuria then did what many thought impossible: he flatlined former champion Max Holloway, handing the Hawaiian the first KO loss of his storied career. As if that wasn’t enough, Topuria capped the streak by dismantling ex-lightweight king Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Rogan’s verdict? "Dude to go from knocking out Volkanovski to knocking out Holloway to knocking out Oliveira, that is the greatest three-fight win streak of all time. It’s just KOs, it’s just flatlines. That’s different," Rogan said, according to The Joe Rogan Experience.
But what makes Topuria’s performances so special? Rogan has long admired the Spaniard’s striking mechanics, efficiency, and composure—traits he says are on par with the very best in combat sports. He’s even ranked Topuria among the elite in the pound-for-pound discussion, pointing out that the fighter’s rise was inevitable even before he captured championship gold. "He’s got the technique, the power, and the mindset. You don’t see that kind of composure under the bright lights every day," Rogan observed, underscoring the rare air Topuria now occupies.
Topuria’s current reign as the 155lbs (lightweight) champion is still in its early stages, but he’s already amassed a following of believers—and detractors. His rivalry with former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has captured the imagination of fight fans worldwide. Both men are undefeated in their championship reigns and have dominated their respective divisions. The potential for a superfight between them is tantalizing, and Rogan is adamant that it’s the matchup to make. "Bring Islam back. I think that’s the fight. If I’m the matchmaker, I’m calling Islam and saying, ‘JDM is fun and everything, but c’mon!’ Call him up and ask if there’s a number. Let’s go to Spain," Rogan declared, referencing Jack Della Maddalena—Makhachev’s next opponent at UFC 322.
Yet, while the MMA world salivates at the thought of a Topuria vs. Makhachev showdown, a new wrinkle has emerged. Islam Makhachev, now preparing for his welterweight debut against Della Maddalena at UFC 322, has accused Topuria of ducking a different challenge—top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan. Makhachev’s words carry weight; after all, he’s a former lightweight champion who knows the pressures of defending the belt and holding the pound-for-pound top spot.
In a recent interview with Tower_GSK, Makhachev didn’t mince words. "It’s no secret that Ilia’s (Topuria) been ducking Arman (Tsarukyan). I’ve already seen some comments on the internet where he says, ‘I’d rather retire than fight Arman,’" Makhachev claimed. That’s a bold accusation, one that’s sent shockwaves through the MMA community. Tsarukyan, with a 22-3 record and now effectively the top contender in the lightweight division following Makhachev’s move up, is widely seen as the most deserving challenger for Topuria’s title. His recent performances have impressed both fans and analysts, and his rise up the rankings has been nothing short of relentless.
The idea that Topuria might be avoiding Tsarukyan has added fuel to the fire. While the champion has been linked to potential blockbuster fights with Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett—both of which could draw big pay-per-view numbers—critics argue that those matchups don’t carry the same merit as a showdown with Tsarukyan. Makhachev’s frustration is palpable; he’s long advocated for merit-based matchmaking, and he isn’t shy about voicing his disappointment when business interests seem to take precedence.
Khabib Nurmagomedov, another Dagestani legend and former UFC lightweight champion, has also weighed in on the hypothetical Topuria-Tsarukyan clash. Khabib gave Tsarukyan an 80-20 advantage, praising the Armenian’s improved striking and distance management. "Arman has evolved into a complete fighter who can handle any style," Khabib reportedly stated, adding more credibility to the notion that Tsarukyan could be the division’s toughest test.
It’s a fascinating situation: on one hand, you have Topuria riding possibly the most impressive streak in UFC history, lauded by commentators and fans alike for his knockout artistry and composure. On the other, you have credible voices in the MMA world—Makhachev and Khabib—suggesting that the real challenge lies ahead, and that Topuria’s legacy may not be complete without facing Tsarukyan. The tension is palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Meanwhile, Makhachev’s own journey is far from over. His upcoming bout with Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 marks his welterweight debut, and its outcome could have ripple effects throughout both divisions. Should Makhachev emerge victorious, the calls for a superfight with Topuria at lightweight will only intensify. But if Tsarukyan continues his ascent and is granted a title shot, the lightweight landscape could shift dramatically—potentially rewriting the narrative around Topuria’s reign.
As for Topuria, he remains focused on his career and the challenges ahead. Whether he chooses to defend against Tsarukyan, pursue a lucrative fight with Gaethje or Pimblett, or hold out for a legacy-defining clash with Makhachev, one thing is certain: the eyes of the MMA world are fixed firmly on him. His next move will not only shape his own legacy but could also redefine the lightweight division for years to come.
For now, fans can only speculate and debate. Will Topuria cement his status as the greatest with another dominant performance? Or will Tsarukyan, backed by legends and statistics alike, finally get his shot and shake up the division? The story is still unfolding, and the anticipation is electric. One thing’s for sure—this is the kind of drama that makes MMA so irresistibly compelling.
