`La Leyenda` aims for the lightweight championship after relinquishing his featherweight belt to move up in weight.
While other options are being discussed, Ilia Topuria is clearly focused on challenging Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title.
However, the champion might have different plans. Makhachev`s manager recently hinted at a possible fight with Justin Gaethje.
Khabib Nurmagomedov has also suggested that Arman Tsarukyan would be a more challenging opponent for Makhachev.
Furthermore, Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to welterweight for a title fight, with the welterweight title being defended next month at UFC 315.
Topuria Believes Khabib Thinks He Is a Threat to Makhachev
Following Khabib Nurmagomedov`s recent remarks about the lightweight title situation, Ilia Topuria responded to the former champion`s statements.
‘The Eagle’ mentioned in an interview that he doesn`t support Topuria as the next challenger because Topuria hasn`t proven himself at lightweight against a top contender, unlike Arman Tsarukyan.
Islam Makhachev has already defended his title twice against Alexander Volkanovski, who was the featherweight champion at the time.
Makhachev was initially scheduled to rematch Tsarukyan at UFC 311 in January, but Tsarukyan withdrew due to injury. Despite many considering him the top contender besides the champion, Tsarukyan`s withdrawal seemingly affected his title shot chances.
Topuria responded on social media, claiming that Nurmagomedov is promoting this idea because he knows Topuria is the most dangerous opponent for the lightweight champion.
“Khabib knows I’m the one to take the belt from Islam. That’s the only reason he doesn’t want Islam to fight me,” Topuria stated.
Topuria Prefers to Wait for Title Shot
The main obstacle to this fight seems to be Islam Makhachev and his team`s hesitation to fight another featherweight champion moving up in weight.
However, after his accomplishments at featherweight, Ilia Topuria seems confident that a lightweight title shot will be available for him after vacating his featherweight title.
A victory over someone like Charles Oliveira or Arman Tsarukyan would solidify his claim, but Topuria`s latest update suggests he is willing to wait.
He reportedly told TASS that while he prefers to return sooner, he is not in a rush to get his title shot and is not considering other fights.
“I want to fight in the summer. But if that doesn’t work out, I’m ready for a title fight in the fall. We’re not considering other options.”
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley