- UFC Makhachev returns to the scene: "I think he's the most successful lightweight in history"
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The possible fight with Ilia Topuria (17-0) was one of the usual questions presented at the 'Media Day' of UFC 322 to Islam Makhachev (27-1). However, the Dagestani, who a few days ago had embraced the fight with the 'Matador', has now decided to cool it down. His head is only focused on Saturday and the fight with Jack Della Maddalena (18-2) for the welterweight title.
"Ilia is the lightweight champion now, but we'll see. He keeps talking about the fight against me. After that fight, we'll see. We'll do something. Because everyone wants this fight, so we'll talk about it afterwards," he said... postponing the possible debate about this fight until after he wins his own this weekend.
Ilia is the lightweight champion now, but we'll see. He keeps talking about the fight against me
The fight is also shrouded in mystery as to where and when it will take place, with Islam and Ilia vying for it to be at the historic event that the UFC will host at the White House in Washington next June, under the auspices of Dana White and of course, Donald Trump
But Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former undefeated champion with a 29-0 record and now coach of Makhachev, among others, believes that none of his pupils will be on that card
"I think if fights are organized at the White House, more American fighters should be involved. It's very interesting. If a Georgian fighter faces a Russian fighter, it's not interesting in front of the White House. It has to be something like Americans representing a country, and they face other fighters. That's how I see it," Khabib told Josh Thomson.
If a Georgian fighter faces a Russian fighter, it is not interesting in front of the White House
Currently, the UFC only has two champions born in the United States: Kayla Harrison (19-1) and Mackenzie Dern (16-5). However, there are possible 'comebacks' such as Conor McGregor (22-6) or Jon Jones (28-1).