Ali Abdelaziz, the manager for UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, has publicly asserted that UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria is responsible for the failure to materialize a highly anticipated superfight between the two.
This accusation comes after Topuria’s manager, Malki Kawa, recently stated that his client was not satisfied with the financial offer for a potential bout against Makhachev at UFC Freedom 250. Contrarily, UFC CEO Dana White had previously attributed the delay to Makhachev dealing with a hand injury. In an interview with TMZ, Abdelaziz presented his side of the narrative, claiming that the fight offer was indeed extended, but it was Topuria who ultimately took issue with the proposed terms.
“I received a call about Ilia fighting Islam. It was midday, Islam was asleep, and I was thrilled about it,” Abdelaziz recounted. He continued, “Subsequently, I received another call, ‘Never mind, the fight won’t happen,’ even before I had a chance to speak with Islam.”
The veteran MMA manager then openly questioned “El Matador’s” genuine desire for the matchup. “I believe Ilia and Islam is the most significant fight the UFC could organize. I think it should occur this year. But, in a sense, does Ilia truly want it?” Abdelaziz pondered.
Despite his strong comments, Abdelaziz also expressed some understanding for Topuria’s position. He acknowledged that Topuria, having recently secured the UFC Featherweight Championship, might be hesitant to move up a weight class or risk his newly acquired title status.
Regarding Makhachev’s immediate plans, Abdelaziz affirmed that his fighter is prepared to face a top contender this summer. However, he did not specify the identity of this challenger.
The potential showdown between Makhachev and Topuria continues to be a subject of considerable speculation among mixed martial arts enthusiasts.
