Ilia Topuria is willing to move up one more weight division to lock horns with Islam Makhachev.
Their discussed bout failed to materialize at lightweight because Makhachev wanted to move up in an attempt to fulfil his welterweight aspirations.
Due to which, the UFC arranged Charles Oliveira vs Ilia Topuria for the vacant lightweight title. The championship clash will take place this Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena.
The president of the UFC, Dana White isn’t a huge fan of contenders jumping around from one division to another. However, he is interested in arranging the highly debated between Makhachev and Topuria match but for now, he’s focused on Topuria's lightweight debut.
Ilia Topuria said he would push to move up to 170 lbs if he wins the lightweight title at #UFC317 and Islam Makhachev wins the welterweight title 👀 pic.twitter.com/MFIpFqNvG2
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 20, 2025
Dana White Reacts
During a recent press conference, Dana White shared his honest opinion on the hosting Makhachev vs Topuria.
"Listen, we'll see how this thing plays out, He just moved up. We're already talking about him going to 170? I mean, he just moved up. Let's see how he does in this fight, and we'll see how Islam does. They definitely want to fight each other."
It will be interesting to see if the dagestani fighter moves down to 155 just to entertain the highly demanded fight with the lightweight debutant.
Ilia says he’s ready to defend the lightweight belt against Islam if he comes down after winning the welterweight title 🏆🔥
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 24, 2025
"I don't wanna run behind anyone, so if he wants to fight, I'll defend my belt and he can come and fight for the lightweight belt. I can… pic.twitter.com/GVKWJ4is5V