Ilia Topuria commented on a potential bout with Conor McGregor, stating he never closes doors on such opportunities. The featherweight champion acknowledged that they are currently not on the same level competitively. However, Topuria noted that McGregor remains popular and talked about in MMA circles. The post includes a poll asking fans whether the matchup would be a hype fight or foolish to make. Topuria's openness suggests he would consider the bout despite the competitive disparity.
Ilia Topuria has expressed openness to a potential fight with Conor McGregor, telling media he never closes the door on such opportunities while acknowledging the two men are not currently at the same competitive level.
Topuria, known as "El Matador," holds a 17-1-0 professional record and is ranked number one in the pound-for-pound standings. The 29-year-old from Spain is currently ranked second in the lightweight division and competes out of Climent Club. Standing five-foot-seven with a 69-inch reach, he lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy, and adds a consistent threat on the ground with 1.96 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
McGregor, nicknamed "The Notorious," carries a 22-6-0 record and remains one of the most recognizable names in combat sports despite his extended absence from competition. The 37-year-old Irishman out of SBG Ireland stands five-foot-nine with a 74-inch reach and a career striking accuracy of 49 percent, averaging 5.32 significant strikes per minute. His grappling output has historically been minimal, with just 0.67 takedown attempts per 15 minutes across his career.
Topuria was candid in pointing out the gap between them competitively but stopped short of dismissing the idea outright, citing McGregor's enduring popularity and continued presence in MMA conversation as factors worth considering.
Why it matters
- Topuria is the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the world, making any opponent he faces a significant step down in current form
- McGregor's commercial draw remains enormous, meaning the fight would generate major interest regardless of competitive concerns
- A lightweight bout would pit Topuria's well-rounded attack against McGregor's southpaw striking, though the styles and current activity levels differ sharply
- No formal negotiations or booking have been reported, and the matchup remains entirely speculative at this stage
