"Topuria is the best matchup" - Fans throw in names as they play matchmaker for Islam Makhachev following UFC 311 win

Islam Makhachev defended his lightweight title for the fourth time at UFC 311, breaking the divisional record for the most title defenses. Now, fans on X/Twitter are debating on who Makhachev should face next. In particular, they replied to a post made by the UFC's official X/Twitter account.

The post in question offers three choices for Makhachev's next opponents. Among them is Arman Tsarukyan, whom he was originally scheduled to face at UFC 311 prior to his withdrawal. The other options are welterweight champion Belal Muhammad and featherweight king Ilia Topuria.

A matchup against Muhammad is unlikely given the pair's friendship and the fact that they both train under the great Khabib Nurmagomedov. So, while the lightweight champion is aiming for a second belt in a different division, it will almost certainly not be against Muhammad.

A stint at middleweight is more likely. However, when it came to the other matchups, there was a clear fan-favorite between Tsarukyan and Topuria.

"Ilia is the only one with a CHANCE"

This sentiment was echoed by others on X/Twitter.

"Ilia is the best matchup"

Some, though, wondered why Charles Oliveira, whom the Dagestani star dethroned for the lightweight strap, was not listed as an option.

"Why is Charles not on the list?"

Another fan asked the same question.

"How is Charles not on here? Legit the only person right now who has a solid possibility"

A collage of fan reactions can be seen below:

Fan reactions to Islam Makhachev's next fights

Makhachev's success has left the lightweight division in a difficult situation. Tsarukyan, whom he beat years ago, soured his relationship with the UFC top brass by pulling out of the title bout with just a day left. Now, Dana White is adamant that he must re-earn his title shot.

Meanwhile, Oliveira, who is 2-2, has failed to author a win streak, and his most recent losses were to both Tsarukyan and Makhachev. The only other top five options are Justin Gaethje, who is coming off a knockout loss, Dustin Poirier, who just lost to the champion, and Max Holloway, who was just knocked out.

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Islam Makhachev had his most dominant championship performance yet at UFC 311

With Arman Tsarukyan out of the main event, Islam Makhachev defended his title against Renato Moicano, who was previously scheduled to face Beneil Dariush on the same card. Despite realizing the opportunity at hand, the Brazilian stood no chance.

Check out Islam Makhachev submitting Renato Moicano:

After a slip, Makhachev recovered to score an easy takedown before submitting Moicano with a D'Arce choke in round one. It was a complete shutout and led to Dana White hailing him as the P4P best.