Topuria says he'd keep featherweight title while moving up to fight Makhachev

Ilia Topuria believes he can retain his featherweight title even if he moves up to welterweight to fight Islam Makhachev. In a recent statement, Topuria explained that everything would be different if he moved up in weight class, because after that fight he would return to the lightweight division. The comment suggests Topuria is open to a superfight with Makhachev while maintaining his championship status at featherweight. No timeline or official plans for such a bout have been announced. Topuria's confidence reflects his current standing as featherweight champion.