Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, explained his lack of interest in a fight with featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.
I’m tired of giving chance to small guys. I need my second belt. It’s nothing exciting. He’s a good fighter. He’s a good skills fighter, but I don’t want to give him a chance. I need second belt. That fight for what? For me, is nothing. It’s just his name, and I don’t need his name. I need the belt.
Islam Makhachev on UFC press conference
It’s worth noting that on January 19 in Los Angeles, Makhachev will face Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch at UFC 311. Their first encounter took place in April 2019 at UFC Fight Night 149, where Makhachev won by unanimous decision. Makhachev boasts a record of 26 wins and one loss, while Tsarukyan has 22 wins and three losses.