Ilia Topuria’s next move in doubt after Islam Makhachev’s manager drops big UFC hint

Ilia Topuria’s next move in the UFC has become unclear after fresh comments from Islam Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz. He suggested that Justin Gaethje could be next in line for the undisputed lightweight title, and if Topuria does not take the fight, the division may move forward without him.

At the same time, Makhachev’s camp says the champion is focused on a welterweight bout next, creating more questions around the lightweight picture. These statements have placed Topuria in a tough position. He wants the biggest fights available, but timing, weight classes, and UFC plans may decide what happens next.

Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev and Justin Gaethje facing key choices in the UFC lightweight title battle

Ali Abdelaziz’s comments have shifted the conversation around the division. He said, “Justin Gaethje is fighting for the undisputed lightweight title, and if Topuria doesn’t want, then Justin will fight for the undisputed title against whoever is next.”

That statement made it clear that the UFC may not wait long for decisions, especially with several contenders ready to step in.

Abdelaziz also pointed out that Islam Makhachev is aiming for a welterweight fight next, which adds another layer to the situation.

He suggested that if a fight against Topuria happens, it would be on Makhachev’s terms. This leaves Topuria balancing two choices: defend his place in the lightweight division or chase a bigger fight against a champion in another weight class.

Topuria has shown interest in facing Justin Gaethje, with talks around a possible June 14 event at the White House.



Gaethje’s popularity in the United States could make him a strong option for a title fight, which is why many believe the UFC may move quickly with that matchup.

At the same time, Topuria has openly shown interest in fighting Makhachev, seeing it as a major career step.

Makhachev himself sounded open to big fights when speaking to Telegraf. He said, “If the UFC wants this fight, I’m ready… I will be ready after Ramadan.”

That response keeps the door open but does not guarantee anything yet. The UFC now has several paths available, a Ilia Topuria vs Gaethje title fight, a possible champion-versus-champion clash, or a complete reshuffle depending on scheduling.

For Topuria, the pressure is simple. Stay active and lock in a title defense, or wait and risk the division moving forward without him. Either way, the next few weeks could decide the future of the lightweight title scene.



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