Since Ilia Topuria’s move to the lightweight division, fans have been anticipating a title shot against Islam Makhachev. However, Makhachev and Team Khabib have shown little interest in the matchup, stating that “La Lendeya” still needs to prove himself. Recently, though, Topuria made it clear that he won’t return to the Octagon until Makhachev agrees to a lightweight title fight.
Topuria has made it clear that after moving to lightweight, he wants a title shot against Islam Makhachev — no tune-up fights, no No. 1 contender bouts. In a recent interview with Joe Rogan, Topuria said he’s willing to sit out until Makhachev agrees to fight, claiming the UFC promised him a title shot next after he vacated the featherweight belt. In the interview, the Former featherweight champion said,
“I would like to fight with Islam [Makhachev], that is for sure, I would like to fight him. I wouldn’t fight for a No. 1 contender fight. If Islam decides he doesn’t want to fight me. I’ll sit until you’re gonna have to fight me,”
Topuria insists that Makhachev can’t avoid him forever. However, the negotiations from Makhachev’s camp haven’t been promising for fans eagerly awaiting this matchup. As a result, many are now questioning whether the fight will actually happen.
Aaron Pico Says His Boxing Skills Surpass Those Of UFC Champ Ilia Topuria
Aaron Pico, the former Bellator standout, has signed an exclusive deal with the UFC, officially joining the featherweight division. Known for his explosive style and strong wrestling, Pico isn’t holding back his ambitions. At a recent UFC Q&A, the 28-year-old boldly claimed he could become champion within a year, saying, “I think I could be champion within a year… I truly feel it.”
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"I think I can become a champ in a year… Topuria has good hands, but I don't think it's at my level."
— UFC (@ufc) April 11, 2025
Aaron Pico is feeling very confident ahead of his UFC Debut! pic.twitter.com/TlwDLZLMgy
When asked about current featherweight champ Ilia Topuria, Pico didn’t shy away from comparisons: “Topuria has really, really good hands, but I don’t think it’s at my level, if I’m just being completely honest.” Pico also pointed to endorsements from elite boxing figures like Freddie Roach and Miguel Cotto to back up his striking credentials. As of now, Topuria has not replied to Pico, so fans might see some heated trash-talk in the future.
Also Read: “I Don’t Train MMA” – Ilia Topuria Drops Truth Bomb About His Training Routine
