Joe Rogan halts ‘GOAT’ talks around Ilia Topuria; favors Islam Makhachev and Jon Jones P4P no 1

Joe Rogan makes a case for Ilia Topuria in comparison with top UFC pound-for-pound fighters like Jon Jones and Islam Makhachev.

Joe Rogan halts ‘GOAT’ talks around Ilia Topuria; favors Islam Makhachev and Jon Jones P4P no 1

Joe Rogan puts Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev, and Jon Jones at a similar level (via Imago)

Ilia Topuria shocked everyone with his latest performance against Max Holloway at UFC 308. He became the first fighter to knock out the ‘Blessed’ and boosted himself as one of the best fighters on the UFC roster. Joe Rogan is a huge fan of Topuria and recently put him in the same conversation with Jon Jones and Islam Makhachev. 

Aside from Holloway, Topuria also defeated former pound-for-pound king Alexander Volkanovski earlier this year. The ‘El Matador,’ he made it look easy, dropping both fighters with his impressive striking and power. In a recent podcast episode, Joe Rogan explored Topuria’s skillset and compared him to other top UFC fighters.

Maybe he’s the best pound-for-pound fighter alive…it’s a little premature especially when Jon Jones is still out there…Islam Makhachev is another one, there’s a real argument that he’s the best pound-for-pound guy alive but it’s f***** close. 

Joe Rogan via JRE #2220
YouTube video

All of these fighters are definitely the most complete champions and have proved their mettle against top challengers. However, Topuria takes the cake by a margin when it comes to raw knockout power. His left hook against Holloway was even compared to the light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

FS Video

Both Topuria and Pereira are leading contenders in the ‘Fighter of the Year’ race, sparking a split among fans and experts. Prominent voices like Daniel Cormier and Alexander Volkanovski have already chosen Topuria as their pick. Additionally, one of the most highly anticipated matchups fans hope to see is between Topuria and Makhachev.

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UFC CEO denies Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria mega-fight 

Ilia Topuria has frequently talked about his intentions to move up and fight Islam Makhachev for the double champion status. The fighter has extreme confidence in his ability and has promised to submit the Dagestani easily. The fighters have also exchanged online disses at each other, given the rivalry. 

Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev
Ilia Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev (via Imago)

Makhachev had mentioned that if Topuria manages to beat Max Holloway, he will think about giving the featherweight champion a chance. After UFC 308, many fans think that Makhachev is the only fighter who can beat Topuria. However, according to Dana White, ‘El Matador’ has some unfinished business at 145 lbs. 

This is his first title defense… there’s plenty of challenges for him at 145. 

Dana White via TMZ Sports 
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Topuria will probably fight Volkanovski for the title rematch next year. Similarly, Makhachev is rumored to be fighting top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. It would be interesting to see if both these fighters ever get an opportunity to clash against each other in the future.