UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has delivered a fascinating technical breakdown, comparing the rising superstar Ilia Topuria to the legendary Conor McGregor in his prime. Makhachev's candid comments, made in a recent interview, have sparked widespread discussion within the mixed martial arts community.
Makhachev's Technical Verdict: Power vs Precision
While acknowledging the similarities fans see between the two charismatic strikers, Makhachev drew a clear distinction in their fighting styles. He credited both fighters but highlighted a critical difference in their approaches inside the octagon.
"I think when it comes to pure power, maybe Topuria has more," Makhachev stated. However, he gave the edge in counter-striking to the Irish icon. "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."
Similar Auras, Different Styles
The comparison between Ilia Topuria and a young Conor McGregor is not unfounded. Outside the cage, both men possess immense confidence, masterful promotional skills, and a natural ability to command the spotlight. Their fashion sense, body language, and knockout-centric mentalities further fuel the parallel.
Inside the cage, the similarities continue, as both are elite strikers who relentlessly pursue finishes rather than leaving their fate to the judges. However, Makhachev, who has closely studied McGregor's game, especially from his famous UFC 229 bout against Khabib Nurmagomedov, insists their techniques diverge at the highest level.
Makhachev's perspective carries significant weight, given his own championship pedigree and his team's historic rivalry with McGregor, which still simmers today.
Makhachev's Future and Next Fight Plans
Shifting focus to his own career, Islam Makhachev provided an update on his next title defense. Having secured the welterweight crown just five weeks ago by defeating Jack Della Maddalena, the champion confirmed he will not be competing in January.
"I definitely won’t fight in January. I think it will be after Ramadan for sure," Makhachev revealed. While nothing is finalized, he indicated that Michael Morales is the likely opponent. "They didn’t tell me the name, but honestly, I think it was Michael Morales." He clarified that discussions with the UFC are ongoing.
Makhachev's analysis provides a unique champion's perspective on two of the UFC's biggest stars, separating fan perception from technical reality while setting the stage for his own highly anticipated return to the octagon later in the year.
