UFC real or not: Title shot stakes this weekend? Topuria for Fighter of the Year?
Makhachev vs Volkanovski is a potential title eliminator
Islam Makhachev will defend his lightweight title against Alexander Volkanovski this weekend in Perth, Australia. Makhachev is a massive favorite in the fight, but Volkanovski is a dangerous challenger. If Volkanovski can pull off the upset, he would become the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two different weight classes simultaneously. A win for Makhachev would further solidify his status as one of the best fighters in the world.
This fight has major implications for the lightweight division. If Makhachev wins, he will likely face Beneil Dariush in his next title defense. Dariush is on a seven-fight winning streak and is the number one contender in the division. A win for Volkanovski would throw the division into chaos. He could vacate the featherweight title and focus on lightweight, or he could try to defend both titles. Either way, a Volkanovski win would be a major upset and would have a significant impact on the UFC lightweight division.
Topuria making a strong case for Fighter of the Year
Ilia Topuria has had a breakout year in 2023. He has won three fights in a row, all by stoppage. His most recent win was a first-round submission of Bryce Mitchell. Topuria is now ranked number one in the UFC featherweight division and is in line for a title shot.
Topuria is a rising star in the UFC. He is only 26 years old and has already shown that he has the skills and the potential to be a champion. If he can continue to win, he could be the next UFC featherweight champion. He is an exciting fighter to watch and has a bright future ahead of him.
Other UFC news
In other UFC news, Jorge Masvidal has been arrested for allegedly assaulting Colby Covington. Masvidal is accused of punching Covington twice in the face outside of a Miami restaurant. Covington was not seriously injured in the incident. Jorge Masvidal is facing multiple charges stemming from the incident, and he is scheduled to appear in court on April 21.