Topuria will finish him.”: Fans React As Islam Makhachev Takes a Possible Shot at Ilia Topuria on Instagram

After having secured a knockout victory against Max Holloway, Ilia Topuria made a move up in weight, leaving the featherweight title vacant. This has set the stage for two much-anticipated fights, one of which is still a speculation and nothing has been confirmed as of yet. While Alexander Volkanovski is all set to face Diego Lopes for the vacant featherweight title at UFC 314 in Miami, the other fight that is yet to receive confirmation is that of Ilia Topuria against Islam Makhachev.

Ilia Topuria is rumoured to face Islam Makhachev in the Lightweight Champion Division

While Makhachev also is on the verge of making a probable move to welterweight or even middleweight, the speculation regarding a possible Makhachev vs. Topuria clash was strengthened after Makhachev posted a cryptic message on social media, stating, “Someone needs to be put out,” along with a selfie in front of fire extinguishers.


It took no time for the fans to decode the post and assume he was targeting Topuria. While a few praised his confidence, others took the side of Topuria and predicted Makhachev’s defeat.

“Let him cook,” one fan wrote.


“He’s coming for Topuria!” another said.


“Let em put it out.”


“Topuria will finish him.”


“Lol bet he thought that was so cool.”


“My goat’s the best trash talker in the UFC.”


“Champ is cooking. Love it.”


“My GOAT has spoken.”


“Topuria will end this clown.”


“Bro Topuria is gonna kill this man and end his career.”


While on the one hand fans are awaiting the official announcement, on the other hand, Makhachev’s management has negated the rumours of the possibility of Topuria getting an immediate title shot. The management instead wants to focus on a No. 1 contender fight booking. Contrary to this, Makhachev’s coach is more inclined towards the idea of facing Topuria later this year.

Amidst all these speculations, UFC CEO Dana White still has not confirmed anything regarding the clash. Knowing that Topuria has fought only once in the UFC’s lightweight division in 2022, which was a comeback victory against Jai Herbert in 2022, White is of the opinion that Topuria has multiple options for his lightweight return.

For now, Topuria has been scheduled for a potential fight against former champion Charles Oliveira, who recently secured a win against Michael Chandler at UFC 309. Meanwhile, Makhachev successfully defended his title against Renato Moicano at UFC 311, a fight that came about after his original opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, withdrew due to injury.

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While Topuria moves up to lightweight with Makhachev already dominating in the division, a fixture between them would be one of the most interesting lineups to witness in 2025. This being said, the details of Makhachev’s next title defence still remain vague.

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