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Ilia Topuria’s continued absence from the Octagon has not kept him out of the headlines. While the undefeated UFC lightweight champion deals with personal matters away from competition, his recent comments have reignited tension within the division—this time drawing a pointed response from Islam Makhachev’s camp.
Ilia Topuria’s absence sparks questions
Topuria’s timeline for his first lightweight title defense remains unclear. The champion has yet to return since capturing the vacant belt with a knockout win over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. As the division waits, the UFC has moved forward with an interim title bout, with Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett set to headline UFC 324 next month.
Despite stepping away from active competition, Ilia Topuria has continued to stir conversation through interviews and social media. His recent remarks targeting fellow lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan generated significant buzz online, with the champion dismissing Tsarukyan’s case for a title opportunity in an explicit rant that quickly went viral.
Those comments, combined with months of verbal jabs aimed at Islam Makhachev, have now prompted a public response from Makhachev’s management team.
Ali Abdelaziz responds to Topuria’s remarks
Islam Makhachev’s longtime manager, Ali Abdelaziz, addressed Topuria’s recent interviews in a post on X, questioning the consistency of the champion’s stance during his hiatus.
“I’m a little bit confused,” Abdelaziz said of Topuria.
“Everybody giving this guy space and respect to resolve his family problems. And should be. But when he come out talking about Khabib, Islam, Arman, for no reason. And he’s not even fighting.
“I’m not sure if people give him a pass anymore.”
Abdelaziz’s comments highlight growing frustration within Islam Makhachev’s camp, particularly as Ilia Topuria continues to make bold claims without a confirmed return date.
Islam Makhachev’s move changes the landscape
The backdrop to this exchange is the shifting dynamic at the top of the lightweight division. Makhachev, the former lightweight champion, moved up to welterweight earlier this year and captured gold by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.
Prior to that move, a potential clash between Makhachev and Topuria had briefly been discussed, fueling much of the ongoing tension between the two camps.
With Islam Makhachev now established as a two-division champion, the pressure is squarely on Topuria to define his next move once he is ready to return.
What Comes Next for Topuria?
As of now, Ilia Topuria has not responded publicly to Abdelaziz’s remarks. The Georgian-Spanish star remains unbeaten in his UFC career, with high-profile wins over Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Josh Emmett reinforcing his status as one of the sport’s most dangerous finishers.
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