Ilia Topuria has turned up the heat in the UFC lightweight division with a bold challenge to reigning champion Islam Makhachev. The 28-year-old fighter has made it clear that he intends to dethrone the champion using Makhachev's own favorite submission move—the D'Arce choke. This announcement comes on the heels of Topuria relinquishing the UFC featherweight championship earlier this year, as he prepares for a new chapter in his career.
Islam Makhachev has held the UFC lightweight title for three years, having claimed it after defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in October 2022. The champion is set to return to the Octagon later this year, with Justin Gaethje and Oliveira both rumored as potential opponents. However, Topuria has his sights firmly set on Makhachev, expressing confidence that he can outmaneuver the champion in what would be a highly anticipated matchup.
Speaking on the PBD Podcast, Topuria stated, “I feel that I submit him with the D’Arce. Like, which one is your favourite? D’Arce? This part I’m not joking. I truly believe that I submit him with the D’Arce or whatever.” His words reflect a deep-seated belief in his ability to not only compete at this higher level but to do so with flair and confidence.
Makhachev has successfully executed the D'Arce choke in his last two title defenses against notable opponents like Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano, making it a signature move for the champion. However, Topuria is no stranger to overcoming challenges, having knocked out both Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski in his previous fights, showcasing his striking prowess and resilience.
As Topuria prepares for this next step, he is acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead. The lightweight division is often regarded as the most competitive in the UFC, and Topuria's transition from featherweight to lightweight marks a significant shift in his career. With an undefeated record of 16 wins, Topuria is eager to establish himself among the elite fighters in this stacked division.
Topuria has not only called out Makhachev but has also made it clear that he wants to submit him in front of Makhachev’s coach, the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov. He remarked, “I take him close to Khabib. I will submit him closer to Khabib. Khabib used to take people on his shoulder, take them down, and talk to Dana. I will do it to Khabib. I will take [Makhachev] and then talk to Khabib. Khabib, I have to do it.” This statement underscores the psychological warfare that often accompanies high-stakes fights in the UFC.
Khabib, a former lightweight champion himself, has expressed his support for the fight but emphasized that Topuria must first prove himself in the lightweight division before earning a title shot. This sets the stage for a potential showdown that UFC fans are eagerly anticipating. TalkSPORT has even dubbed the matchup as "the biggest bout in the UFC outside of Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall," highlighting the significance of this clash.
As the lightweight division continues to evolve, Topuria’s callout of Makhachev adds another layer of intrigue. With both fighters at the pinnacle of their careers, the stakes could not be higher. Fans are left wondering whether Topuria's confidence will translate into success inside the Octagon or if Makhachev will continue his reign over the lightweight landscape.
With the fight still in the making, Topuria’s determination is palpable. He aims to make a statement not just with his skills but by challenging the very fabric of what it means to be a champion in the UFC. As he prepares for what could be a career-defining moment, the MMA community watches closely, waiting for the official announcement of this thrilling matchup.
Whether Topuria can fulfill his promise of submitting Makhachev with the D'Arce choke remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the anticipation surrounding this potential fight is reaching a fever pitch. As both fighters gear up for what promises to be a monumental clash, fans are left to speculate on the outcome of this high-stakes encounter in the UFC.
In the world of mixed martial arts, where anything can happen, Topuria's bold claims and Makhachev's championship pedigree set the stage for a showdown that could redefine the lightweight division. As the narrative unfolds, the excitement surrounding this fight is sure to capture the attention of fight fans across the globe.
