Ilia Topuria says he won't be stripped if he moves to lightweight for Islam fight

Ilia Topuria has stated that if he moves up to lightweight to fight Islam Makhachev, he will not be stripped of his featherweight title. Topuria clarified that his plan would be to continue defending the 145-pound belt even while competing at 155 pounds. This arrangement would allow him to pursue a potential super-fight with Makhachev while maintaining his featherweight championship. Whether the UFC would actually permit such an arrangement remains to be confirmed by the promotion. Topuria also expressed disappointment in Paddy Pimblett's recent performance, saying he knew Pimblett was a poor fighter but didn't realize how poor.