Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria are regarded as two of the greatest champions in UFC history, with fans constantly debating a potential showdown between them. The matchup has generated significant buzz, but Makhachev has made it clear that he has no interest in facing featherweights. UFC veteran Matt Brown backs the lightweight champion’s stance, agreeing that 145-pound fighters shouldn’t be given the opportunity.
With ‘El Matador’ vacating his featherweight title, speculation about a fight with Islam Makhachev has intensified. However, there’s no certainty that Topuria will receive an immediate title shot at lightweight. UFC legend Matt Brown understands Makhachev’s hesitation, especially since Topuria would be stepping straight into a championship fight.
Brown fully supports Makhachev’s stance, pointing out that the lightweight champ has already faced a former featherweight in Alexander Volkanovski and shouldn’t have to fight another. Speaking on The Fighter vs. The Writer, Brown stated,
“If I’m Islam, I don’t take that fight,” Brown said on The Fighter vs. The Writer. “I don’t try to make that fight happen. I totally agree with what he said. ‘I don’t need to fight another blown up 145-pounder.’” “He already did that, too [with the Alexander Volkanovski fights]. I heard Islam had said that, I don’t need to fight another blown up 145’er. I think he’s got a great point there. What Ilia has done, I feel like he has earned to fight for a title in basically every division, too though, but I agree let him fight one and earn his way to the title.”
.@IamTheImmortal sides with Islam Makhachev over the rumored Ilia Topuria fight:
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) February 28, 2025
"I heard Islam had said, 'I don’t need to fight another blown up 145’er.' I think he’s got a great point there."
(🎥 @DamonMartin) pic.twitter.com/rmuMmKoKld
Joe Rogan wants Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria
Joe Rogan is pushing for Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria, now that ‘El Matador’ has vacated his featherweight title and moved to 155 lbs. Topuria has long expressed interest in a second belt, while Makhachev has hinted at changing divisions. Speaking on his UFC 312 Fight Companion podcast, Rogan called it the fight to make, saying,
“As crazy as it sounds, I hope Ilia goes up to [155 pounds]. I really do,”“[Alexander] Volkanovski – Diego Lopes [at] 145, Ilia goes up to 55. I don’t care if he only defended the title one time or didn’t, who cares. Let’s go. Let’s fcking go. It’d be nice but also who cares? Let’s go. Let’s fcking go.”
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Joe Rogan has called for Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria next 👀
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) February 10, 2025
“I hope Ilia goes up to 155. I don’t care if he only defended the title once. Let’s f*cking go!” pic.twitter.com/CdZjTtTJ3s
Joe Rogan believes Ilia Topuria doesn’t need multiple title defenses and should move to 155 lbs. While facing more featherweight contenders would be nice, he insists a fight with Islam Makhachev should take priority, calling it a must-watch for fans.
Also Read: Former UFC Star Doubtful About Ilia Topuria’s Decision To Fight Islam Makhachev
