For years, UFC fans around the world have been waiting for one fight that feels bigger than any title defense or regular rivalry: Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev.
It is the kind of matchup that defines eras, pits two different fighting philosophies against each other, and answers questions fans have debated endlessly.
But now, recent developments from both camps suggest that this super fight may never happen, or at the very least, it has become extremely difficult for the UFC to make it a reality.
So what exactly is going on? Why does this fight feel further away than ever? Let’s break down the full situation clearly and honestly.
Why Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev Is the Most Wanted UFC Fight
Before understanding why the fight may not happen, it’s important to know why fans want it so badly.
Ilia Topuria represents the new generation of MMA fighters. His rise has been fast, brutal, and dominant.
He captured the UFC Featherweight title and then shocked the world by moving up and winning the Lightweight title, becoming a double champion.
His boxing-heavy style, power, and confidence made him one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport.
On the other side stands Islam Makhachev, a fighter many consider the most complete MMA athlete of this era.
A dominant champion at lightweight and now a Welterweight champion, Islam’s wrestling, control, and fight IQ have proven to be levels above most opponents.
A fight between Topuria and Makhachev was seen as the ultimate test:
- Elite boxing vs elite wrestling
- New-age aggression vs Dagestani dominance
- Two champions at the peak of their powers
But timing, career plans, and UFC politics may have ruined this opportunity.
Ilia Topuria’s Side: Boxing Over MMA
One of the biggest reasons this fight looks unlikely is Ilia Topuria’s future plans.
In recent statements and interviews, Ilia has openly hinted that he is losing interest in MMA and is more focused on becoming a professional boxer.
He believes his boxing skills can shock the world, and financially, boxing offers bigger paydays with less damage over time.
Key Points From Ilia Topuria’s Camp:
- Ilia has hinted at leaving the UFC
- He wants to transition fully into boxing
- He plans to fight only the remaining fights on his UFC contract
- He no longer seems interested in long-term MMA plans
This creates a major problem for the UFC. Super fights like Topuria vs Makhachev require:
- Long-term promotion
- Commitment from both fighters
- Willingness to delay other opportunities
If Ilia only has one or two fights left, the UFC may prefer safer, guaranteed matchups instead of risking injuries or contract issues with Islam Makhachev.
Islam Makhachev’s Side: Legacy Over Activity
While Ilia’s reason is about leaving MMA, Islam Makhachev’s situation is very different.
Islam recently became the Welterweight champion, adding another belt to his legacy. But according to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam will not fight frequently anymore.
What Khabib Has Made Clear:
- Islam is no longer interested in regular title defenses
- He will only take legacy-defining fights
- Health, age, and long-term planning matter more now
- Retirement is closer than fans think
Islam is now in his mid-30s. Fighters from the Dagestani camp are known for retiring early and protecting their legacy. Khabib retired undefeated at his peak, and he wants the same path for Islam.
This means Islam might also have only one or two fights left in his career.
Timing Is the Biggest Enemy of This Fight
When both fighters are nearing the end of their careers, timing becomes everything.
To make Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev happen, the UFC would need:
- Both fighters are free at the same time
- No injuries
- Contract alignment
- A massive event to justify the risk
At the moment, none of these conditions is guaranteed.
- Ilia wants boxing.
- Islam wants selective legacy fights.
- The UFC wants control and long-term value.
That’s a tough equation to solve.
UFC’s Perspective: A High-Risk, High-Reward Fight
From Dana White’s point of view, this fight is massive but also risky.
Why UFC Might Hesitate:
- If Ilia leaves for boxing, the UFC loses a star
- If Islam retires soon, long-term plans collapse
- Injuries could cancel future title fights
- Both fighters are champions or former champions in different divisions
The UFC usually prefers fights that keep champions active and divisions moving. A super fight like this freezes multiple divisions and creates uncertainty.
The Only Possible Way This Fight Happens
There is only one realistic scenario where this fight could still happen.
UFC Road to White House Event
If the UFC decides to go all-in and create a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, something like a UFC Road to White House or a historic mega-event, this fight could headline it.
Why this could work:
- Massive global attention
- Legacy-defining moment for both fighters
- One final super fight before retirement or boxing
- Financial motivation for both sides
This would not be a regular pay-per-view. It would be marketed as:
- One era ending
- Two champions colliding
- A fight fans waited years for
Without an event of this magnitude, the chances drop dramatically.
Why This Would Be the Biggest Fight in UFC History
If Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev ever happens, it would instantly become one of the biggest fights the UFC has ever promoted.
Reasons:
- Two double champions
- Clash of styles fans debate endlessly
- Massive fanbases across Europe, Russia, and the Middle East
- Boxing vs wrestling at the highest level
It’s the kind of fight people would talk about for decades.
Reality Check: Is This Fight Actually Happening?
As things stand right now, the honest answer is no.
Not officially canceled, but:
- Extremely difficult to make
- Timing works against it
- Career plans don’t align
- UFC priorities may shift
Unless something dramatic changes, fans may never see this dream matchup inside the Octagon.
Final Thoughts
Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev is the fight every UFC fan wants, but wanting a fight and getting a fight are two very different things.
- Ilia Topuria is looking toward boxing and a new chapter in his career.
- Islam Makhachev is protecting his legacy and fighting selectively.
- The UFC is stuck between opportunity and risk.
At this moment, it feels like this legendary matchup is slipping away, and unless the UFC pulls off something historic, this fight may remain one of the greatest “what ifs” in MMA history.
For now, fans can only hope because hope is the only thing keeping this dream alive.