Makhachev Eyes Topuria Showdown at White House UFC Event
BREAKING NEWS: Former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has set his sights on a blockbuster fight against Ilia Topuria at the UFC’s highly anticipated event at the White House on June 14, 2024. Makhachev is gearing up for his welterweight championship bout against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, scheduled for November 14, 2023, at Madison Square Garden.
Makhachev (27-1) vacated his lightweight title in May to pursue the welterweight division but remains keenly aware of Topuria (17-0), who recently claimed the lightweight championship by knocking out Charles Oliveira. The two fighters are widely regarded as the top pound-for-pound competitors in the UFC, and a clash between them is generating immense buzz.
“I saw the [Oliveira] fight; he’s good,” Makhachev told ESPN. He expressed enthusiasm for a potential showdown with Topuria, especially at the White House event. “I know the UFC wants to do some big fight in the White House. Which fight is going to be bigger than this?”
The UFC has yet to announce specific bouts for the June event, raising anticipation among fans and fighters alike. While Topuria is currently unbooked, he is expected to defend his lightweight title at least once before making a potential move up to welterweight.
Makhachev, who defended his title four times before moving divisions, revealed the challenges of weight cutting. He stated, “No one who cuts like [22 pounds] recovers 100%. I was still feeling [the effects] for the fight, maybe 70% or 60%.” This admission highlights the physical toll weight management takes on fighters, making his move to welterweight a critical step in his career.
As Makhachev prepares for his title challenge in November, the fight against Topuria looms large in the future. Both fighters have expressed interest in meeting at the 170-pound limit, making their potential matchup one of the most anticipated in UFC history.
Fans worldwide will be watching closely as Makhachev faces Della Maddalena, with the outcome likely shaping the future of both fighters. Will Makhachev emerge victorious and pave the way for a historic showdown with Topuria in front of the White House? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the excitement is building, and the stakes have never been higher.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and prepare for a thrilling ride in the world of MMA!
