After Islam Makhachev’s dominant victory over Renato Moicano in the UFC 311 main event, which ended in the first round via a D’Arce choke submission, fighters quickly reacted, with Ilia Topuria being one of the most notable voices.
This win solidified Makhachev’s status as the top pound-for-pound fighter and raised questions about who can finally end his incredible 15-fight winning streak.
But Topuria, the reigning featherweight champion, made his intentions clear:
“If you want, I can finish you. I can take you out easily. I’ll make it look simple. See you soon.”
Islam, if I want to, I can finish you.if I want to, I can knock you out. I'll make it look easy. Se you soon 😉
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 19, 2025
In a swift response, the Georgian-Spanish fighter confirmed his readiness to move up to lightweight to challenge the UFC’s current champion, Islam Makhachev, in a new and thrilling rivalry. His statements have ignited excitement, leaving fans wondering about a potential showdown between the two, which could become one of the most anticipated fights.
Islam Makhachev needs to move up to welterweight and become double champ! #UFC311
— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) January 19, 2025
While Makhachev’s performance in the main event was remarkable, other UFC fighters added to the heat of the discussion regarding future challenges:
- “Islam Makhachev should move up to welterweight and become a double champion!”
- “That D’Arce choke was incredibly tight!”
The question now facing Makhachev is whether he will accept Topuria’s lightweight challenge or reconsider and face welterweight champion Belal Muhammad.
That darce is so tight
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) January 19, 2025
Either way, the UFC scene remains ablaze, with fans eagerly anticipating who will step up to stop Makhachev’s unstoppable winning streak.
