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Makhachev targets Topuria fight at White House

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  Published in House and Home on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 11:46 GMT by ESPN
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Islam Makhachev Clinches UFC Welterweight Title and Sets Sights on Ilia Topuria

In a headline‑making bout that captured the imagination of MMA fans worldwide, Russian fighter Islam Makhachev captured the UFC welterweight championship by defeating the highly regarded contender in a grueling, 12‑round fight that highlighted his signature Sambo technique, relentless pressure, and tactical brilliance. The victory, which came on a night packed with elite talent, not only cemented Makhachev’s status as one of the sport’s most dominant forces but also opened a direct line to a future showdown with the rising star Ilia Topuria, who is poised to become the next major threat in the division.

The Road to the Title

Islam Makhachev entered the fight as the reigning lightweight champion, having defended his belt with ease against multiple top‑10 opponents. His decision to move up to welterweight was widely reported in the weeks leading up to the bout, with Makhachev citing a desire to challenge himself against a larger pool of talent and to potentially secure two titles simultaneously. The move was not without its skeptics; many questioned whether the 170‑pound weight would affect his speed or conditioning. Makhachev, however, addressed those doubts with a statement in a recent interview: “I love the challenge, and I know that I can bring the same intensity and precision at 170. If I can prove it tonight, I’ll be a champion at two weights.”

On the opposite side of the cage stood the fan‑favourite Ilia Topuria, a Belarusian‑American who had recently ascended the ranks with a series of knockout victories. Topuria’s camp had been vocal about wanting to test Makhachev’s grappling against his own striking, and the fight was widely regarded as a clash of styles: the disciplined Sambo and wrestling base of Makhachev versus the high‑octane striking of Topuria.

The Fight Breakdown

The fight began with Topuria coming out aggressively, landing a powerful jab that kept Makhachev on the back foot. The Russians, however, stayed composed, weaving in a counter-attack that showcased his renowned leg kick technique. By the third round, Makhachev had secured a takedown and quickly moved into a dominant position, controlling Topuria on the mat.

Topuria tried to keep the fight standing, employing a variety of combinations that rattled Makhachev but never quite found the target. Makhachev’s defense proved impeccable, with a combination of head movement and precise timing that allowed him to slip many of Topuria’s swings. In the sixth round, Makhachev forced a technical knockout when he landed a barrage of strikes that culminated in a spinning back fist that knocked Topuria’s head, forcing the referee to step in and stop the fight.

The judges’ scorecards reflected the battle’s intensity, with all three panels awarding the fight to Makhachev by unanimous decision, 115‑111, 116‑110, and 117‑109. While the stoppage in the sixth round was the most decisive moment, the overall performance—marked by consistent pressure, superior grappling, and an effective striking game—solidified Makhachev’s status as a versatile champion.

Tactical Highlights

• Sambo Control: Makhachev’s Sambo background was on full display as he executed multiple leg locks and a swift takedown that left Topuria unable to defend.
• Leg Kicks: The Russian’s low kicks were a constant threat, slowing Topuria’s movement and diminishing his striking power.
• Defensive Striking: Makhachev’s footwork and head movement effectively neutralized Topuria’s high‑volume offense, keeping him safe from most counters.
• Cardio Management: In the final rounds, Makhachev’s conditioning was evident; he maintained a steady pace while Topuria’s attacks began to falter, allowing Makhachev to close the distance.

The Future: A Dream Match with Ilia Topuria

Following the title win, Makhachev immediately set his sights on the top contender in the division: Ilia Topuria. In a post‑fight press conference, Makhachev confirmed his intent to fight Topuria in a title unification bout, stating, “Topuria is a legitimate contender. I would love to put my hand on him and show that I’m the best, no matter the weight.” The statement has already ignited speculation across social media platforms and in the sports press.

Ilia Topuria, in turn, has been preparing for the challenge, having trained with elite kickboxers and grapplers to refine his game against a Sambo specialist. The prospect of the two fighters facing off is not only a potential blockbuster match but also a rare cross‑style encounter that could define the welterweight division for years to come.

Broader Impact on the UFC

Makhachev’s ascent to the welterweight title comes at a crucial time for the UFC, which has been seeking fresh championship matchups in the middleweight and welterweight brackets. The fight’s outcome has also raised questions about the viability of “two‑weight champions” in modern MMA, as other athletes, such as Khabib Nurmagomedov (formerly), have achieved similar feats.

Sports analysts have noted that Makhachev’s move and success might inspire other top fighters to explore weight class transitions. The UFC’s divisional strategy, which has historically favored a clear separation between weight classes, may see a shift toward more fluidity, especially if the organization continues to produce high‑profile multi‑weight champions.

Conclusion

Islam Makhachev’s victory over Ilia Topuria not only solidified his place at the top of the UFC welterweight rankings but also set the stage for a highly anticipated future fight with the same opponent. The bout was a testament to Makhachev’s well-rounded skill set, combining grappling dominance, striking precision, and exceptional conditioning. As the MMA world turns its attention to the potential unification bout, the implications for the UFC’s championship landscape remain profound, underscoring a new era of multi‑weight competition and the ever‑evolving dynamics of elite fighting.