Topuria plans to defend featherweight title if moving up to fight Islam Makhachev

Ilia Topuria stated that if he moves up to welterweight to fight Islam Makhachev, he will not be stripped of his featherweight title because he plans to continue defending the 145-pound belt. Topuria also expressed disappointment in Paddy Pimblett's performance against Renato Moicano, saying he knew Pimblett was a poor fighter but didn't realize how bad. Jiri Prochazka revealed he hasn't moved past his recent loss even after his child's birth, claiming he was operating at 40-50% capacity after injury and fought in "sparring mode" while waiting for the referee to stop the bout. Magomed Ankalaev, through manager Ali Abdelaziz, challenged Khalil Rountree to a striking-only bout, promising a "25-minute master class" if Rountree can last that long. The UFC announced several new matchups designed to challenge hardcore fans.