UFC star Ilia Topuria is being welcomed to the welterweight division by a potential opponent.
Ilia Topuria became a major topic in the MMA world after securing his second UFC title with a knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in Las Vegas. Undefeated, Topuria has rapidly risen to become one of the UFC`s top draws.
Topuria`s performance at UFC 317 lived up to his bold predictions, making him one of the few UFC greats to win titles in multiple weight classes, joining icons like Jon Jones, Daniel Cormier, and Georges St-Pierre.
Shortly after his impressive win, Topuria expressed his desire to continue making history.
Belal Muhammad welcomes Ilia Topuria’s welterweight ambitions
Topuria recently sparked discussion about potentially seeking a third UFC title at 170 lbs. While he has often hinted at a future move to welterweight, he reportedly promised UFC officials at UFC 317 that he would not immediately change divisions.
However, this hasn`t stopped prominent welterweights from welcoming him to the division when the time comes.
On his YouTube channel, Belal Muhammad shared his thoughts on Topuria potentially moving up to become a three-division champion.
Belal Muhammad commented on Topuria`s potential: “Is Topuria underrated or overrated? I think he’s rated right,” Muhammad stated. Regarding a move to 170 lbs, he added, “Can Topuria compete at 170? He showed that his power translated… At 170, I think the size definitely would matter… But man, I’d welcome him to come to 170, come up! Let’s do it!”
Muhammad`s last fight was a loss for the UFC welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. He has recently expressed interest in fighting Kamaru Usman for a potential top contender spot.
The UFC has never seen a three-division champion in its history. A move to welterweight could help Topuria solidify his place among the greatest if he pursues this unique achievement.
Ilia Topuria focused on settling rivalry with lightweight contender
For now, Topuria`s focus is likely on his first lightweight title defense, potentially against a long-standing rival. He recently had an intense faceoff with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 317, highlighting their existing animosity.
While Pimblett was rumored for a fight against Justin Gaethje, he denied these reports. Pimblett`s last appearance was a finish over Michael Chandler at UFC 314.
Following his breakthrough at UFC 317, Topuria has multiple potential opponents. If he does decide to move up to 170 lbs, Belal Muhammad could well be his first challenger in that division.
