Ilia Topuria has quickly become one of the most dangerous contenders in the UFC, making him a real threat to Islam Makhachev’s lightweight title. With a flawless 16-0 MMA record and 8-0 in the UFC, there’s no reason to label him as a rookie who can’t face the Russian champ.
However, the UFC reportedly plans to match Ilia Topuria against Charles Oliveira soon, as Islam Makhachev is heavily considered for UFC 317 against Dricus Du Plessis. But this plan didn’t sit well with Topuria’s close friend Merab Dvalishvili, who recently criticized the idea.
Dvalishvili Slams Ilia Topuria’s Next Fight Booking
Ilia Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title, hoping for an immediate chance at the 155-pound championship. However, there are reports suggesting that the UFC may first match him against Charles Oliveira, which could push back his title shot.
Merab Dvalishvili, a close friend of Topuria, feels differently. He believes the next fight for Topuria should be against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Speaking on Jake Shields’ Fight Back podcast, he shared another level of frustration over the company’s booking.
Referencing Islam’s strong record of wins, Dvalishvili said, “He already beat Arman. He beat Oliveira. He beat [Poirier]. … It’s not going to be an easy fight for Ilia, but that’s the fight to—Ilia’s my friend, I love him, but it’s going to be stupid if he fights Oliveira, if he loses to Oliveira. This is the superfight.”
Dvalishvili’s frustration reflects the growing sentiment among Topuria’s supporters. They believe Topuria has already earned his chance at Makhachev’s lightweight title.
Merab thinks Ilia Topuria is the biggest name
Merab Dvalishvili has clarified it that he sees Ilia Topuria as the biggest name in the lightweight division. He’s frustrated that Islam Makhachev isn’t giving Topuria the respect he deserves as a real challenger.
In a video posted by Fight Back Podcast, Dvalishvili spoke out, defending Topuria as a top contender. He pointed out that Topuria, who was a former featherweight champion, has already proven himself against the best.
Merab Dvalishvili says Islam Makhachev vs Ilia Topuria is the fight to make:
“Islam’s saying ‘oh I don’t want to fight small guys’, what small? Ilia’s the f***ing biggest name.”
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— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) April 21, 2025
“He’s saying he’s not a featherweight, he’s lightweight and he’s champion,” Dvalishvili said. “Who you have—I know Islam is saying, ‘Oh, I don’t want to fight small guys.’ But Ilia is fcking the biggest name.”*
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