Topuria says he won't be stripped at 145 if he moves to 155 to face Islam

Ilia Topuria addressed multiple topics in a recent interview, expressing disappointment in Paddy Pimblett's performance against Justin Gaethje and stating he knew Paddy was a poor fighter but didn't realize just how much. Regarding potential plans to move up to lightweight to face Islam Makhachev, Topuria revealed that he would not be stripped of his featherweight title because he plans to continue defending the 145-pound belt. Meanwhile, Jiri Prochazka discussed still being haunted by his recent loss even after the birth of his child, explaining he was operating at only 40-50% power after his injury and was essentially in sparring mode, waiting for the referee to intervene. Magomed Ankalaev, through his manager Abdelaziz, called out Khalil Rountree, saying Rountree doesn't need the wrestling training he's doing with Khamzat Chimaev because Ankalaev plans to deliver a 25-minute striking masterclass.