Muhammad Mokaev hopes to see Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria combat sometime.
We practically had Makhachev vs. Topuria signed, sealed, and delivered. Nevertheless, Jack Della Maddalena had totally different plans. Delivering a lights-out efficiency at UFC 315 in Montreal, JDM defeated Belal Muhammad to seize the welterweight world title, prompting Makhachev to vacate his light-weight throne to beat one other division.
Had ‘Keep in mind The Title’ crushed Della Maddalena, Makhachev would have doubtless stayed put at 155, taking over former featherweight king Ilia Topuria this summer season.
Alas, it was not meant to be, however that doesn’t imply we gained’t in the future see Makhachev go toe-to-toe with ‘El Matador’ on MMA’s greatest stage.
Muhammad Mokaev says UFC followers wish to see stars vs. stars no matter weight class
Talking with Chael Sonnen, Mokaev believes there’s nonetheless a path to creating Makhachev vs. Topuria occur, however it all hinges on each fighters popping out on high of their subsequent outing.
“I don’t suppose Jack Della Maddalena might be an issue for Islam. Islam is just like the uncle of the division, undefeated, skilled, no stress,” Mokaev mentioned. “If Islam beats Jack, perhaps he does a BMF title combat at catchweight with Ilia. Followers wish to see stars versus stars, not simply weight lessons.
If Islam beats Ilia, folks will say, ‘He beat one other 145er.’ But when Islam wins the welterweight title, after which Ilia beats Oliveira, these are even greater fights. I’d fairly see Islam turn out to be champion, Ilia turn out to be champion, after which they combat at catchweight. That’s a superfight.”
Whereas Makhachev has not but booked his inevitable conflict with Della Maddalena, Topuria already has a date for his first crack at light-weight gold. El Matador’ will meet former 155-pound champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28, the winner leaving because the division’s new high canine.
