Ilia Topuria has at all times exuded confidence and forward of his transfer as much as light-weight, he has as soon as once more predicted his destiny.
When Ilia Topuria knocked out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298, it grew to become abundantly clear that the 28-year-old was probably the promotions subsequent big star.
‘El Matador’ went on to proceed showcasing his ‘aura’ when he grew to become the first fighter in UFC history to knockout Max Holloway, efficiently defending his strap at UFC 308.
Having picked up two of the most important scalps within the 145lb division, Topuria shockingly announced he was vacating the title and can be transferring as much as the light-weight division completely.
And with that, Topuria has relentlessly pursued a title fight in opposition to Islam Makhachev, the present light-weight king.
Ilia Topuria declares himself the champion of the light-weight division
Having additionally lately revealed that he will change his ‘El Matador’ nickname head of his potential conflict with Makhachev, Ilia Topuria has made an enormous declaration concerning his standing within the light-weight division.
“I’m the light-weight world champion,” the Spaniard declared in an interview with Mens Health Spain.
“I’m clear about it, in any other case I wouldn’t change (weight). I gained’t join a contest with out realizing if I’m going to win or not… Nobody is at my degree,” Topuria continued.
Regardless of confidently claiming that he’s already the light-weight champion, it’s unclear whether or not Topuria’s first combat on the weight class since transferring up will come in opposition to the present champion.
Makhachev has made it clear that he isn’t interested in combating the 28-year-old till he picks up a win over a high contender first. And with that, Topuria and Charles Oliveira have been involved in an online feud, probably organising a primary contender combat.
Charles, it is higher for those who keep quiet. You’ve gotten 10 losses: 5 by knockout, 4 by submission, and 1 by choice. You’re the contender, whereas I’m the champion, the daddy of your complete division. I have never come right here to ask something. Right here, I’m the one in cost.
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) March 22, 2025
Topuria did one thing related forward of combat in opposition to Volkanovski
This isn’t the primary time Topuria has put his status on the road, as forward of his UFC 298 title problem in opposition to Alexander Volkanovski, Topuria modified his Instagram bio to ‘UFC featherweight champion’.
It was an enormous speaking level forward of their conflict, with some UFC followers pondering he had bitten off greater than he may chew, additionally accusing him of trying to be Conor McGregor.
Nevertheless, after scoring such a devastating knockout, Topuria’s pre-fight prediction catapulted him even additional into superstardom.
