Ali Abdelaziz Blames Ilia Topuria for Islam Makhachev Fight Collapse
Ali Abdelaziz, manager for UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, has directly accused Ilia Topuria of being the reason a highly anticipated super fight between the two champions failed to materialize. Abdelaziz asserts that despite initial interest, Topuria ultimately caused the bout to fall through.
The potential superfight pitting Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria against Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has been a prominent topic in MMA discussions. Topuria's manager, Malki Kawa, recently indicated that his fighter was not satisfied with the financial offer for the proposed clash. Conversely, UFC CEO Dana White suggested that Makhachev was dealing with a hand injury, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the fight.
Speaking to TMZ, Abdelaziz presented his side of the story, stating that the fight was indeed offered, but Topuria's camp raised objections to the terms. "I got called about Ilia fighting Islam. It was the middle of the day, Islam was sleeping, and I was excited about it," Abdelaziz recalled. "After that, I got called back, 'Never mind, the fight’s not gonna happen.' Even before I talked to Islam."
The veteran MMA manager then questioned Topuria's genuine desire for the matchup, despite recognizing its potential impact. "I believe Ilia and Islam is the biggest fight the UFC can make. I think this fight should happen this year. But in a way, does Ilia really want it?" Abdelaziz mused. He also expressed a degree of understanding for Topuria's stance, noting that the Featherweight champion might be hesitant to take a significant risk that could jeopardize his current title, perhaps drawing parallels to past instances in the sport where fighters relinquished titles.
Currently, Ilia Topuria, the reigning UFC Featherweight Champion, is expected to face Justin Gaethje in a high-profile bout. Meanwhile, Abdelaziz confirmed that Islam Makhachev, the undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion, is prepared to compete against a top contender later this summer, though he did not specify an opponent.
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