Khabib Warns Ilia Topuria Not Ready for Makhachev
The lightweight division is heating up, with several contenders vying for a title shot against Makhachev. While Topuria may have his sights set on the title, Khabib's warnings suggest that he may not be ready for the challenge, and that Tsarukyan could be the more deserving opponent.
Islam Makhachev's next title defense is expected to be his toughest test yet, with Khabib Nurmagomedov citing Arman Tsarukyan as the most competitive opponent, surpassing even Ilia Topuria in terms of skill and experience.
Nurmagomedov, the former UFC lightweight champion and current coach of Makhachev, believes that Tsarukyan poses a greater challenge due to his skills and experience, despite Makhachev having already beaten him in the past. A rematch between the two would be a more competitive fight, according to Nurmagomedov, who thinks that Tsarukyan is more serious and competitive than other potential opponents, including Pimblett and Topuria.
Khabib has expressed hesitation about a potential title fight between Makhachev and Topuria, suggesting that giving Topuria a title shot after moving up from 145 pounds would diminish Makhachev's legacy. Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title and has expressed interest in facing Makhachev for the lightweight title, but Khabib thinks that he is not ready for the challenge. Instead, Khabib believes that Arman Tsarukyan would be a better opponent for Islam, as he has already proven himself to be a competitive fighter.
Makhachev has been eyeing a move up in weight, considering challenges in the welterweight or middleweight division, but for now, his focus remains on defending his lightweight title. With Khabib's guidance, Makhachev will look to take on the toughest challenges in the division, and a potential fight against Tsarukyan could be on the horizon.