In the world of mixed martial arts, the behavior of fighters outside the ring can sometimes stir as much conversation as their performance within it. This has been the case with Ilia Topuria, the UFC featherweight champion, who has recently come under scrutiny by notable figures in the MMA community. Daniel Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with Topuria’s apparent reluctance to defend his title against elite contenders.
Topuria’s decision-making has been a topic of debate, particularly his refusal to fight certain top-ranked fighters, including former champion Alexander Volkanovski. This has led to speculation about who the featherweight champion is willing to face in the octagon. Joe Rogan, on an episode of the JRE MMA Show, mentioned that Topuria declined a rematch with Volkanovski at UFC 305 in Perth. Rogan shared, “I don’t know who he wants to fight next, but I guess he feels like he’s the champ, he can call the shots. I know that he turned down the Perth one — [UFC] 305, the Volkanovski rematch.”
Cormier took to his YouTube channel to voice his concerns more directly, questioning Topuria’s approach to choosing his battles. “Ilia Topuria is the champ, and as the champ at times you have some say into who you’re gonna fight, when you’re gonna fight and you’re ready and all that. I don’t know if he has as much say in this as he thinks he does. It’s just weird. He’s not telling us what’s next, but he’s saying no to a lot of things that can be right now. And I don’t know that you can do that as the champ,” Cormier stated.
Despite the controversy, Topuria’s fighting future took a turn when Max Holloway emerged victorious at UFC 300, putting him back in contention for the title. Topuria has reportedly agreed to defend his featherweight title against Holloway, setting the stage for an anticipated clash. The champion issued an ultimatum to Holloway, asserting his confidence and his desire to claim the BMF title from the new BMF champion. Topuria’s bold proclamation has fueled further exchanges between the two fighters, both in interviews and on social media.
The back-and-forth between Topuria and Holloway has captured the attention of fans and pundits alike, with ‘El Matador’ stating his terms for the fight. He has made it clear that he is in control of the situation, dictating the terms of engagement and even suggesting an alternative opponent in Brian Ortega should Holloway not agree to his conditions. Topuria’s statement read, “The only thing questionable about me is whether I finish you by KO or submission… You now have the one thing that keeps you relevant and that would grant you a money fight, the BMF belt… Winning that belt while holding my title will cement me as the first. The first to hold both belts… I decide who, when, and where. If you don’t like the terms I’m sure Ortega will oblige.” This bold stance has only intensified the anticipation for Topuria’s next move in the UFC featherweight division.
