In the world of mixed martial arts, the stakes are always high, but recent developments surrounding UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev have raised eyebrows across the sport. Former Bellator heavyweight and current sports director of Ural FC, Kirill Sidelnikov, weighed in on the possibility of Makhachev losing his title if he declines to fight Ilia Topuria. This situation, which has unfolded in the lead-up to UFC 317, scheduled for June 28 in Las Vegas, has ignited discussions about fairness and the implications of title defenses.
According to reports from ABC, Makhachev, who has an impressive record of 27 wins and just one loss in his MMA career, is at risk of being stripped of his title if he refuses to face Topuria, the Georgian-Spanish fighter who has made waves in the UFC since moving up to the lightweight division. Topuria, who previously held the featherweight title, vacated it in February 2024 to pursue opportunities in a heavier weight class. Dana White, the head of UFC, confirmed earlier this year that Topuria would be competing in the lightweight division, making this matchup increasingly likely.
Sidelnikov expressed his views on the situation during an interview with Match TV, stating, "There’s news that UFC might strip Makhachev of his belt due to his refusal to fight Topuria. Is this fair? It depends on the perspective. If Topuria truly deserves this fight and Makhachev is avoiding it for his reasons, then there’s logic to it." This raises an important question: Does Topuria deserve a shot at the title? Sidelnikov believes he does, citing Topuria's impressive performance record and his status as a top contender.
However, the lightweight division is packed with talent, and Makhachev has other potential challengers like Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, and Charles Oliveira, all of whom are vying for their chance at the championship. Sidelnikov noted, "In the weight class where Makhachev fights, all top fighters deserve a title shot. There’s an interesting race going on. I don’t understand the concept of a 'temporary title.' You could have a fight for the contender status instead. Did Topuria earn a fight with Makhachev? I think he has. He’s been in the UFC for a long time, fights well, and is considered a top fighter—so why not?"
The upcoming fight card for UFC 317 is crucial, especially since the planned middleweight title fight between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev may fall apart due to injury concerns. UFC officials are keen on having Makhachev and Topuria headline this event, which adds more pressure on Makhachev to accept the bout. If he declines, it’s reported that the organization will strip him of the championship title and arrange a fight for the vacant belt between Topuria and Oliveira.
Topuria boasts an unblemished record of 16 wins in 16 fights, making him a formidable opponent. His journey in the UFC has been impressive, and many fans and analysts believe he has earned the right to challenge for the title. Sidelnikov remarked, "If we look at what Topuria has done at featherweight, he’s knocked out two of the greatest fighters in that category—Alex Volkanovski and Max Holloway. But he hasn’t proven himself in the division above yet. Makhachev wants Topuria to have a 'meaningful' fight against one of the lightweight tops before he gets a title shot."
Makhachev's reluctance to fight Topuria partially stems from the fact that Ilia has yet to compete in the lightweight division. The champion has expressed interest in moving up to welterweight, where he aims to hold two belts simultaneously. However, he faces a dilemma as the current welterweight champion, Belal Muhammad, is a close friend and training partner whom Makhachev is unwilling to fight.
As the situation unfolds, Makhachev's decision looms large. Should he accept the fight with Topuria, it could solidify his legacy in the lightweight division. However, if he chooses to wait for a potential title fight against Muhammad or another contender, he risks losing his championship status. As Sidelnikov pointed out, “It’s a double-edged sword. The roster of fighters is built not on whether you come in as a champion but based on your victories.”
In the meantime, Makhachev's camp is reportedly keeping a close eye on the upcoming fight between Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena, scheduled for May 10. If Maddalena wins, Makhachev may opt to challenge him for the welterweight title instead. The potential for Makhachev to move up in weight adds another layer of complexity to this situation, as it could lead to a title fight that many fans would eagerly anticipate.
As UFC 317 approaches, the MMA community is buzzing with speculation about Makhachev's next move. Will he step into the octagon against Topuria, or will he pursue a different path? The implications of his decision could reshape the lightweight division landscape significantly. With so much at stake, fans are left wondering how this drama will unfold.
In conclusion, Makhachev's title defense against Topuria is not just a fight; it's a pivotal moment that could redefine careers and legacies in the UFC. The pressure is on, and the world of mixed martial arts is watching closely.
