Ilia Topuria is gearing up for his return to the Octagon on June 28th during UFC’s International Fight Week card. The former featherweight champion will be moving up to the lightweight division for this fight, adding an extra layer of excitement to his anticipated comeback. Topuria’s opponent for this divisional debut will likely be determined by the outcome of UFC 315’s main event.
During a recent appearance on Spain’s popular late-night talk show, El Hormiguero, Topuria didn’t hold back when discussing a potential matchup with Islam Makhachev. He exuded confidence, boldly stating, “I don’t think he’ll even touch my legs, because the first thing he feels, he’ll want me to send him back to Russia… The only reason he doesn’t want to fight me is because he knows I’m going to beat him.”
This statement generated a buzz among fans, with some predicting a champion vs. champion showdown in the making. While opinions on Topuria’s bravado varied, it’s clear that excitement for this potential matchup is building.
UFC President Dana White has already hinted that Topuria could face either Makhachev or Charles Oliveira after UFC 315. With the welterweight title fight headlining the event, the stakes are high for all involved. Topuria’s next fight has the potential to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the year, but a spoiler could emerge in the form of Jack Della Maddalena, who has the chance to shake up the lightweight title picture with a win over Belal Muhammad.
As the anticipation grows and the trash talk heats up, fans are eagerly awaiting Topuria’s return to the Octagon and the potential matchups that lie ahead. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting chapter in the world of UFC.