Ilia Topuria set to take on Makhachev in Las Vegas

The stage is set, it seems, for Ilia Topuria to face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title. According to journalist Álvaro Colmenero, a date has already been floated - Saturday June 28, 2025, during International Fight Week in Las Vegas.

Other developments in UFC

While the UFC has yet to make an official announcement, recent developments, including Dricus du Plessis’s injury and the confirmation of the BMF title fight between Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway at UFC 318, leave Topuria and Makhachev as the clear headliners for the UFC’s most significant week of the year.

Just a few days ago, Topuria stirred up excitement by posting on X that he was ramping up his training camp for his next fight. All signs pointed to a title clash with Makhachev, but doubts arose due to resistance from Makhachev and his team. They were hesitant to grant another featherweight champion—who hadn’t yet proven himself in the lightweight division—a shot at the title, as they had previously done with Alexander Volkanovski on two occasions.

The BMF title fight between Max Holloway and Dustin Poirier has officially been confirmed for UFC 318, set to take place on July 20, 2025, in New Orleans. While another fight could have taken this spot at UFC 317, it was ultimately ruled out, leaving Holloway and Poirier to headline this highly anticipated event.

As Colmenero revealed, all signs now point to Topuria stepping into the spotlight. With Charles Oliveira—who previously faced Makhachev for the lightweight crown—still in the mix, his opportunity may have to wait. However, if Makhachev decides to move up to welterweight and vacates the lightweight title, Oliveira could emerge as Topuria’s final opponent.

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