What Was Discussed When Ilia Topuria Vacated His Title And Moved To Lightweight?

Topuria has publicly stated that the UFC promised him an immediate lightweight title shot against Islam Makhachev as a condition for vacating his featherweight belt.

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Multiple reports and statements from Topuria suggest that he believed this was a done deal, and UFC insiders, including journalist Ariel Helwani, indicated the fight was close to being finalized.

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Islam Makhachev and his team, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, have expressed reluctance to face another former featherweight champion immediately, especially after Makhachev’s two previous defenses against Volkanovski.

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They argue Topuria should first defeat a top lightweight contender, such as Charles Oliveira or Dustin Poirier, to prove himself in the new division.

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The lightweight division is stacked, with names like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Arman Tsarukyan also vying for a title shot. Recent rumors suggest the UFC may be considering these fighters for the next title bout, pushing Topuria further down the queue.

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Makhachev is reportedly considering a move to welterweight to pursue a second division title, adding more uncertainty to the lightweight title picture.

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UFC President Dana White and the organization have not made any official statements confirming Topuria’s title shot, fueling speculation that the original promise may not be honored.

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As of late April 2025, Topuria remains adamant that he will only accept a lightweight title fight for his next bout and is unwilling to take a contender fight. He continues to call out Makhachev, but with no official announcement, his immediate future remains in limbo.

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Topuria’s move was strategic and based on both health and legacy ambitions, but the politics and depth of the lightweight division have complicated his path to an immediate title shot.

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