Henry Sejud believes Khabib Nurmagomedov could be in the way of the Islamic Makhachev vs. Ilia Topria superfight.
Earlier this year, Topuria announced plans to open a featherweight title, stating its intention to move up to 155 pounds and pursue a second belt. Fans quickly speculated whether Topuria would win an immediate title shot. Topuria was added to the speculation saying he was promised. However, Makhachev seems cool to this idea, and Sejud believes he knows why.
“I remember talking to Khabib, but Khabib said it’s not fair for Ilia to skip the line and chase the title shot with Islam. “He gave (Alexander) Volkanovsky the title (shot) of the couple he went up to. So I don’t think it would be an Islam choice. I think Khabib would step in and think, ‘He needs to fight the first candidate.’
“Khabib said that if Ilia beats a No. 1 candidate, I’d certainly do so, so I think Islam will fight anyone, anytime, anyone, Makachev, International Combat Week.”
Makhachev is currently the longest support champion in the UFC, breaking the defensive record for most lightweight titles in the defeat of Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January. Topuria beats someone with a lightweight first. And Cejudo only has an opponent.
“I also feel what is going to happen. They could probably give to Ilia Dustin Poirier in Louisiana,” Sejude said. “Whatever that is. Charles (Oliveira) doesn’t want to fight Ilia Toplia, so he says, “I’ll fight him if I become the champion.” So I don’t know how much he pulls, but the fighter has got the opportunity and says he won’t fight anyone for that title shot.
“Dustin Poirier said he was fighting the only legend in the battle he retired. Ilia Topria changed his name to “legend.” ”