Islam Makhachev, known for his fearless mentality, is facing criticism for allegedly avoiding a fight with Ilia Topuria after vacating his lightweight title to pursue a welterweight championship against Jack Della Maddalena, a move some argue is a strategic career advancement rather than “ducking” an opponent.
Islam Makhachev’s "anyone, anywhere, anytime" mindset is legendary. His quote about this mentality is even immortalized at the UFC Performance Institute.
Back in 2023, after a sudden opponent change, he said, “What does this title represent? It means you’re the best in the world… Let’s do this.” Bold words.
Now, some claim he’s dodging a fight with Ilia Topuria. Why? Because he vacated his lightweight belt to move up to 170 pounds, eyeing a two-division championship against Jack Della Maddalena.
Topuria’s accusation of Makhachev ducking him has gained traction, with analysts like Chael Sonnen chiming in. Yet, UFC legend Matt Brown strongly disagrees.
“I’m very surprised people are saying that,” Brown commented on The Fighter vs. The Writer. “Islam ducking someone, those words don’t make sense.”
Brown argues that Maddalena is a bigger version of Topuria. Both are great boxers with power. Why would Makhachev avoid a smaller opponent to fight a bigger one?
Della Maddalena, newly crowned after defeating Belal Muhammad, is known for his knockout power. At 5-foot-11 with a 73-inch reach, he towers over the 5-foot-7 Topuria.
Makhachev, shorter than Maddalena but bigger than Topuria, finds himself in the middle. Brown doesn’t buy the narrative that Makhachev is avoiding a fight.
“Those two words just don’t go together — Islam and ducking,” Brown insists. There’s a business side to these claims, often fueled by dramatic fans.
Stylistically, Brown sees Makhachev taking a bigger risk at welterweight, where Brown himself spent his career. Weight classes exist for a reason, after all.
“Jack is even more technical than Ilia on the feet,” Brown says. “It’s not a safer fight in any way.”
Brown also considers Makhachev’s legacy. With four title defenses, he’s already surpassed his coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Moving up to welterweight could cement his greatness. Imagine him defending that belt as well.
“If Islam stays on top of that division, that’s epic,” Brown muses. “He beats Jack, that solidifies it, right?”
Four wins at welterweight could elevate Makhachev to GOAT status. It’s a fascinating prospect.
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