Former UFC BMF Champ Jorge Masvidal Breaks Down Potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria Superfight

Former UFC BMF champion Jorge Masvidal recently shared his insights on a much-speculated superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. While this bout has been a hot topic among fans, its realization has been mired in conflicting reports and logistical challenges.

Initially, rumors suggested that Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria was prepared to vacate his title and move up to welterweight to challenge champion Islam Makhachev. The fight was reportedly eyed for June 14 at the White House. However, these plans were allegedly derailed due to a hand injury sustained by Makhachev, preventing his participation.

UFC President Dana White later clarified that a Makhachev vs. Topuria bout was never officially scheduled for the proposed UFC Freedom 250 mega-card. Instead, Topuria is now slated to face current two-time interim UFC Lightweight Champion Justin Gaethje on June 14. Islam Makhachev remains sidelined due0 to his injury, with no clear timeline for his return or his first title defense.

Jorge Masvidal's Analysis of Makhachev vs. Topuria

During a discussion on his podcast, Jorge Masvidal offered a compelling breakdown of how a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria showdown might unfold. "Gamebred" acknowledged Topuria's "unbelievable power" and ability to potentially finish any opponent with his striking.

However, Masvidal quickly emphasized Makhachev's grappling prowess, stating that "the moment Makhachev secures a takedown, it will most likely be all over for 'El Matador.'" He recalled Makhachev's dominant performance in his welterweight debut at UFC 322, where he effortlessly "ragdolled" Jack Della Maddalena for five rounds, highlighting the Dagestani fighter's elite grappling skills.

Masvidal elaborated on the stark contrast in their fighting styles, noting that while both Topuria and Della Maddalena are exceptional strikers, Makhachev's wrestling operates on an entirely different level.

"I could see Islam taking Ilia down and making his day very, very long, or Ilia getting in there, using his hands and catching him, because in my book, Ilia is maybe two notches faster than Makhachev, and his power is unreal, incomparable," Masvidal commented. "But Makhachev on the ground doesn’t get tired, can submit you from anywhere, and is just so damn good at getting to your legs and making you work. Jack’s striking is second to none, and Islam played with him."

Masvidal's analysis points to a classic striker-versus-grappler dynamic, where Topuria's explosive striking presents a threat, but Makhachev's relentless wrestling and superior ground control would likely dictate the outcome if the fight hits the mat.