Ilia Topuria is rapidly becoming one of the UFC’s most talked-about fighters, drawing comparisons to some of the sport’s legendary figures. Notably, reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has weighed in, offering insight into how Topuria compares to former two-division champion Conor McGregor.
Topuria, also known as “El Matador,” solidified his status in the sport earlier this year by claiming a two-division championship after an impressive knockout victory over former lightweight titleholder Charles Oliveira. His exhilarating performances and undeniable confidence have made him a major pay-per-view attraction, drawing in fans from all corners of the globe.
Like McGregor during his remarkable rise, Topuria is known for his self-assured demeanor, sharp verbal exchanges with opponents, and psychological tactics that engage fans beyond the hardcore MMA circles. His vibrant personality, engaging media presence, and willingness to challenge top fighters have generated interest reminiscent of McGregor’s ascension to superstardom.
A key component of the comparisons is their striking styles. Both fighters prefer aggressive approaches, often seeking knockouts instead of waiting for judges’ decisions. Topuria’s bold choices in fashion and larger-than-life persona echo the early flamboyance of McGregor, further fueling the parallels.
When asked to assess the two fighters, Makhachev offered a thoughtful perspective based on his experience with McGregor and his observations of Topuria’s current dominance. He noted, “I think when it comes to pure power, maybe Topuria has more. But as a counter-puncher, I think McGregor was better. His timing, how he waited… The way he met his opponents with his left hand, making them miss and countering. I think that was on another level.”
Makhachev’s viewpoints gain credibility considering his firsthand knowledge of the intense rivalry between the Nurmagomedov camp and McGregor, especially highlighted by McGregor’s memorable matchup against Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229, where he faced overwhelming grappling pressure.
As Topuria continues to showcase his skills in the octagon, the discussions surrounding his potential to emulate or even surpass McGregor’s impact on the sport are expected to persist, especially as he garners attention from rivals and analysts alike.