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Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev: What Each Fighter Needs to Do to Win the UFC Lightweight Title
With Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev - The UFC’s lightweight division is about to get even more exciting as Ilia Topuria, the former featherweight champion, sets his sights on the lightweight title. After vacating his featherweight belt in December 2024, Topuria is ready to challenge the undefeated Islam Makhachev for his lightweight crown. The matchup promises to be an epic battle of styles, and both fighters have distinct paths to victory.
This fight isn't official yet but it is in talks and if it happens. Here’s what each fighter needs to do to secure the win.
Ilia Topuria: Use His Aggression and Striking to Break Makhachev's Control
Ilia Topuria is known for his aggressive fighting style, with knockout power and relentless pressure. To beat Makhachev, Topuria will need to fully embrace his striking game. Makhachev is known for his suffocating control and exceptional wrestling, but Topuria has a well-rounded striking game that can be devastating when he lets his hands go.
Key to Victory for Topuria:
Exploit Striking Opportunities: Topuria must use his striking to keep Makhachev at bay and find openings for clean shots. His ability to mix up punches, kicks, and elbows will be vital, especially given Makhachev’s ability to close distance quickly.
Avoid Makhachev’s Wrestling Control: Makhachev’s wrestling and top control are among the best in MMA. Topuria needs to stay off the mat and prevent Makhachev from taking him down. Keeping the fight standing and using his striking to outpace Makhachev is critical.
Stay Unpredictable: Topuria thrives when he is unpredictable in his attacks. Mixing combinations and varying his tempo can prevent Makhachev from timing his counters and closing the distance for takedowns.
Islam Makhachev: Dominate the Ground and Implement Strategic Pressure
Islam Makhachev has built his reputation on a dominant grappling game, with a style very similar to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Makhachev excels at closing the distance and using his superior wrestling to grind opponents into the canvas. Against Topuria, Makhachev will need to make sure the fight goes to the ground as quickly as possible.
Key to Victory for Makhachev:
Control the Pace with Wrestling: Makhachev's best route to victory lies in using his superior wrestling to dictate the pace of the fight. If he can close the distance early and get Topuria to the ground, he can smother him with his top control and ground-and-pound, much like he did in his victories over fighters like Charles Oliveira and Bobby Green.
Neutralize Topuria’s Striking: Makhachev’s striking has improved over the years, but his strength lies in grappling. He needs to avoid exchanging punches in the pocket with Topuria, as Topuria’s power could cause him trouble. Makhachev needs to get in close, avoid the long-range strikes, and drag the fight to the mat.
Stay Patient and Look for Submissions: Once the fight hits the ground, Makhachev’s ability to control and transition between positions becomes crucial. Whether he is looking for a submission or just grinding out Topuria with top control, Makhachev must stay patient and wait for openings.
What Makes This Fight So Exciting?
The stylistic contrast in this fight is what makes it so thrilling. Makhachev’s relentless pressure and grappling-heavy approach will clash with Topuria’s explosive striking and aggressive style. Fans can expect a chess match where each fighter tries to impose their game plan. Will Topuria’s striking and aggression overwhelm Makhachev, or will Makhachev’s wrestling suffocate Topuria’s offensive threats? This battle for the UFC lightweight title will likely be one of the most talked-about matchups of the year.
FIGHT.TV Is Here For It!
Both fighters have the tools to win, but the key will be execution. Topuria needs to keep the fight standing and outstrike Makhachev, while Makhachev will look to take the fight to the ground and control it there. With so much at stake, this is sure to be a showdown for the ages, and fans will be glued to their seats to see who emerges as the next UFC lightweight champion.
Who do you think will take the title—Ilia Topuria with his dangerous striking or Islam Makhachev with his dominant grappling? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!