Ilia Topuria has stated that he is ready to shock the world by choking out Islam Makhachev. The post questions whether Topuria is being realistic with this claim, referencing the song 'Fantasizer' in a mocking tone. No details were provided about whether this fight is being negotiated or if Topuria is simply calling out Makhachev. The comment suggests skepticism about Topuria's ability to submit the lightweight champion, who is known for his elite grappling skills.
Ilia Topuria has turned up the volume on a potential lightweight showdown, publicly declaring that he is prepared to choke out reigning champion Islam Makhachev and shock the world in the process.
Topuria, nicknamed El Matador, holds a 17-1-0 record and is currently ranked number two in the lightweight division. The 29-year-old Spaniard also sits at the top of the pound-for-pound rankings, a position earned on the back of one of the most active striking outputs in the sport. He lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute and attempts submissions at a rate of 1.1 per 15 minutes, giving him a credible all-around game despite being known primarily as a finisher on the feet.
Standing in his way is Makhachev, the lightweight and welterweight champion out of Russia. The 34-year-old Eagles MMA product carries a record of 28-1-0 and holds the top spot in the pound-for-pound rankings. Makhachev is widely regarded as one of the premier grapplers in the sport, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes. His 58 percent striking accuracy further underscores the difficulty of the challenge Topuria is courting. No details have emerged regarding whether a fight between the two is under negotiation.
Why it matters
- Topuria is the number-two ranked lightweight, making him a credible contender for a title shot at 155 pounds.
- Makhachev's elite takedown and submission numbers make a chokeout claim particularly bold and will fuel debate about the matchup's realistic dynamics.
- A height and reach disadvantage — Topuria stands five-foot-seven with a 69-inch reach against Makhachev's five-foot-ten and 70-inch reach — adds another layer to the style puzzle.
- The callout raises immediate questions about divisional positioning, with Topuria currently sitting just outside the championship picture.
