After Ilia Topuria announced the abandonment of the Featherweight Championship to move to the Lightweight, there was a information that Topuria would immediately compete with Islam Makhachev. However, this does not seem to happen. Topuria may even have to temporarily return to Featherweight to fight, or match 1-2 matches in Lightweight to compete.
The reason why Topuria could not be strictly painted immediately was because Makhachev did not accept the competition. However, the main reason behind this decision of Makhachev was not because he was afraid of the opponent. In addition, there is information showing that Khabib Nurmagomedov has intervened in Makhachev's decision.
Sharing with MMA Junkie, the former UFC Henry Cejudo champion said: “I remember I had talked to Khabib, and he said it would not be fair for Topuria if this boxer was immediately competing.
Also revealed from Cejudo, Khabib may have advised Makhachev about the way to let Topuria on the belt with this boxer. That condition is that Topuria must win against the No. 1 candidate for the challenge position with Makhachev. Meanwhile, Topuria will be recognized as eligible for belt, and the candidate may be Justin Gaethje.
Among the UFC champions at the present time, Islam Makhachev is the longest holder. He is also the boxer in the Lightweight weight line with the most successful number of championship protection matches, after defeating Renato Moicano at the UFC 311 event.