Islam Makhachev expresses interest in clash against Ilia Topuria: "We'll fight if necessary"

Islam Makhachev recently expressed interest in a fight against Ilia Topuria, which could be one of the most lucrative fights the UFC can book. The two champions have been involved in a back-and-forth on social media for months, with the Dagestani's teammates even getting involved.

The reigning featherweight champion most recently retained his title this past October, when he became the first fighter to knock out Max Holloway. Makhachev, on the other hand, last defended his title this past June by submitting Dustin Poirier. The lightweight champion hasn't competed since, as he was recovering from a hand injury but has been reportedly linked to headlining UFC 311.

Home of Fight posted a clip from the Dagestani's conversation with Russian outlet Match TV, where he discussed a potential super fight against 'El Matador' and noted that he would be open to it:

"[Topuria] is a champion, he has to talk. We'll definitely have some conversations with him. He talks about me all the time. He probably wants to get something across to me. Let's go out and talk. We'll fight if necessary." [translated]

Check out Islam Makhachev's comments below:

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What did Ilia Topuria predict would transpire in a potential bout against Islam Makhachev?

Ilia Topuria certainly isn't a fighter who lacks confidence and recently shared his prediction for a potential bout against Islam Makhachev.

While speaking to journalist Alvaro Colmenero in October, Topuria said:

"For Islam [Makhachev], I represent a style that he knows would beat him. He knows because I know very well where he comes from...I know how their thought process works, I know their level of technique, their level of strength...So for me, even if it seems like a very difficult fight, I would make Islam suffer a lot. Too much." [Translated] [8:03]

Check out the full interview featuring Ilia Topuria's comments about Makhachev below: