Islam Makhachev Stands Firm on Ilia Topuria Fight Conditions

The UFC lightweight champion insists Topuria must defeat a top contender before earning a title shot, as the division seeks clarity on its next challenger.

• Islam Makhachev has declined to face Ilia Topuria unless the former featherweight champion secures a win against a top lightweight contender.
• Ilia Topuria recently moved up to lightweight, relinquishing his featherweight title after dominant victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway.
• The lightweight division lacks a clear number-one contender, with Justin Gaethje emerging as a potential next opponent for Makhachev.
• Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to a higher weight class to pursue dual-championship status, adding to the uncertainty in the division.
• Analysts, including Daniel Cormier, see a potential Makhachev vs. Topuria fight in Abu Dhabi as a major event, but only if Topuria meets Makhachev's conditions.

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