Few topics in mixed martial arts spark as much controversy and excitement as Ilia Topuria’s future. The undefeated featherweight champion has already cemented himself as a rising superstar, but is he destined for bigger things?

 

As speculation grows around a potential move to lightweight, fans and analysts are debating whether Topuria could challenge the division’s dominant force—Islam Makhachev. Some believe Makhachev’s grappling would be too much, while others argue that Topuria’s explosive power could be the ultimate equalizer.

Recently, UFC veteran and former title challenger Dustin Poirier weighed in on the debate. His verdict? If Topuria lands clean, he can put anyone to sleep—including Islam Makhachev.

This statement has sent shockwaves through the MMA world. Could Topuria really be the first man to stop Makhachev in his prime? Or is this just another overhyped challenger destined to fall short?

Let’s break down why this potential showdown is one of the most fascinating fights the UFC could book in 2025.

Dustin Poirier Says Ilia Topuria Could Be Islam Makhachev’s Worst Nightmare

Ilia Topuria: The Unstoppable Force
Ilia Topuria’s rise in MMA has been nothing short of incredible. At just 27 years old, he has already dominated the featherweight division, proving himself as one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport.

His undefeated record, elite boxing, and devastating knockout power have made him a must-watch fighter. But perhaps more important than his skill set is his unshakable confidence—he truly believes he is the best in the world, and so far, no one has been able to prove him wrong.

Dustin Poirier Says Ilia Topuria Could Be Islam Makhachev’s Worst Nightmare

A Look at Topuria’s Most Devastating Finishes
Brutal Knockout of Alexander Volkanovski—Topuria ended Volkanovski’s reign with one of the most dominant performances in featherweight history.

Submission Victory Over Bryce Mitchell Showcasing his well-rounded game, Topuria made easy work of Mitchell, proving he’s more than just a knockout artist.

Destruction of Josh Emmett: Against one of the toughest punchers in the division, Topuria put on a clinic, outclassing Emmett from start to finish.

But as dominant as he has been, there’s always a bigger challenge ahead. And in MMA, the best way to prove greatness is by moving up in weight and testing yourself against the best.

Islam Makhachev: The Ultimate Test
If Ilia Topuria wants to be great, Islam Makhachev is the man standing in his way. The current UFC lightweight champion and heir to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy, Makhachev, has looked unstoppable in recent years.

His relentless wrestling, suffocating control, and improved striking have made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport. Many believe he is already among the greatest lightweights of all time.

Makhachev’s Dominant Championship Reign
Finished Charles Oliveira-Makhachev made a world-class submission artist look helpless on the ground.

Knocked Out Alexander Volkanovski Many doubted Makhachev’s striking, but he proved he has fight-ending power.

Neutralized Dustin Poirier Against one of the best boxers in lightweight history, Makhachev’s grappling was too much to handle.

But while he has been nearly flawless, no champion is invincible. Could Ilia Topuria be the first to truly challenge him?

Dustin Poirier’s Controversial Take on Topuria vs. Makhachev
When Dustin Poirier was asked about how a fight between Makhachev and Topuria would play out, he didn’t hesitate.

“If Topuria connects, he can knock out anyone,” Poirier stated. “He’s got serious power, great boxing, and the kind of confidence that makes him dangerous. Islam is a beast, but Topuria has the tools to hurt him.”

This statement is massive coming from Poirier, a man who has fought some of the most dangerous strikers in UFC history.

Does he see something in Topuria’s style that others are overlooking?

Or is this just wishful thinking from a fellow striker, hoping someone will finally crack the Dagestani puzzle?

Let’s analyze the key factors.

Can Topuria’s power overcome Makhachev’s grumbling?
This is the biggest question in this potential fight. We’ve seen many knockout artists enter the cage against Makhachev—none have been successful.

But Topuria is different.

His boxing is more precise than Charles’s.

He carries more knockout power than Volkanovski.

He has a better takedown defense than Justin Gaethje.

Most importantly, he’s never shown fear against elite grapplers.

However, fighting Islam Makhachev is an entirely different challenge.

Makhachev’s control on the ground is nearly inescapable. No one has been able to stop his takedowns consistently, and once he gets a dominant position, the fight is essentially over.

Can Topuria land before he gets taken down?

That will decide the fight.

Would Topuria’s Confidence Be His Downfall?
One of Topuria’s biggest strengths is his unshakable belief in himself. He doesn’t hesitate, doesn’t show doubt, and doesn’t respect the “aura” of his opponents.

But that same confidence could get him into trouble against Makhachev.

If he underestimates Islam’s wrestling, he could be controlled for five rounds.

If he rushes in too aggressively, he could get taken down early and never recover.

If he isn’t patient, he could gas out before landing his best shots.

Topuria will need to fight the perfect fight to have a chance.

How Would the Fight Play Out?
A Topuria-Makhachev fight would be a true clash of styles—raw knockout power vs. suffocating grappling dominance.

Here’s how it could unfold:

Round 1: Topuria comes out aggressive, looking to land a big shot early. Makhachev plays it safe, feinting takedowns to keep Topuria guessing.

Round 2-3: If Topuria hasn’t landed a knockout, Makhachev starts to impose his will. The takedowns become harder to stop.

Round 4-5: If Topuria is on his back, it’s likely over. But if he’s still on his feet, he’ll always have a puncher’s chance.

Will Topuria be able to keep the fight standing long enough to land the shot that shocks the world?

Does Topuria Have a Better Chance Than Previous Challengers?
Many have tried and failed against Makhachev. But is Topuria different?

Unlike Oliveira, he won’t rush into bad positions.

Unlike Volkanovski, he won’t be undersized.

Unlike Gaethje, he won’t rely solely on explosiveness.

Topuria is young, dangerous, and hungry.

And that might be exactly what it takes to dethrone a dominant champion.

What’s Next for Ilia Topuria?
Before Topuria moves to lightweight, he may need to defend his featherweight belt.

But if he does make the jump, the UFC must book this fight immediately.

Would he shock the world? Or would Islam Makhachev prove once again that wrestling reigns supreme?

One thing is for sure—if Topuria connects, he might change the entire sport forever.