"That's the only answer" - Khamzat Chimaev reveals straightforward solution to rivalry between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria

Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev have mutual animosity, and according to Khamzat Chimaev, the two men must resolve their differences. During UFC 308 media day interview, 'Borz' offered a potential answer to resolve the feud between the aforementioned pair.

When asked by a reporter about a potential clash between the reigning UFC featherweight champion and lightweight kingpin, Chimaev's response was simple. He believes that nothing else should be done besides scheduling both Topuria and Makhachev for a bout.

"I don't know. They have some bitter war now, so both these guys have to fight. The only answer for that is, what, cage."

Check out Khamzat Chimaev's take on the Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria feud (12:50):

However, before taking aim at Makhachev, Topuria must first defend his featherweight title against the division's former champion, Max Holloway at UFC 308. While 'El Matador' is undefeated, his foe presents a difficult stylistic challenge with his granite chin and bottomless gas tank.

Moreover, Holloway is among the finest boxers in the entire promotion, having only ever been outstruck by the great Alexander Volkanovski.

But Topuria is nothing if not confident. Not only does he want to defeat Makhachev, but he is also aiming to become the UFC's first-ever three-division champion, a lofty goal that would be a tall order for anyone.

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Belal Muhammad previously warned Ilia Topuria against feuding with Islam Makhachev

Ilia Topuria recently claimed that he would severely injure Islam Makhachev in a street fight, even asserting that he'd hospitalize him. Naturally, Belal Muhammad, who is close to the AKA camp, advised 'El Matador' not to threaten the lightweight kingpin in such a manner.

In an interview with Helen Yee, Muhammad said:

"Like they said, it's different there [in Dagestan]. If you want to street fight, they'll street fight. Islam doesn't care about, 'Oh, let's get paid for it.' He sees you, you disrespect him, he's going to show you what disrespect means from Dagestan."

Check out Belal Muhammad's warning to Ilia Topuria (7:38):

Topuria, however, is unlikely to heed Muhammad's warning, as he has fashioned himself into one of the UFC's most prominent trash-talkers.