New York: UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen believes a super-fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria is now more important than ever, especially after recent developments in the UFC lightweight and pound-for-pound rankings.
In 2025, Topuria moved up to lightweight and captured the vacant UFC lightweight title—previously held by Makhachev—by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. That win also propelled him to the No. 1 pound-for-pound position, ending Makhachev’s 602-day reign at the top.
However, Makhachev quickly reclaimed that status. After defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, the Dagestani star became a two-division champion and regained the P4P No. 1 ranking.
Sonnen Questions P4P Rankings, Says a Real Grudge Now Exists
Speaking about the rankings shake-up, Sonnen questioned how Topuria lost the top spot without losing a fight. He argued that this situation has created a rare and compelling storyline between the two champions.
“This is the first time that Islam and Ilia actually have something to fight about. Something was taken from Ilia,” Sonnen said.
“In this sport, you only concede ground that you concede or that somebody can take from you. Neither has happened to Ilia, but he still lost his spot.”
Sonnen believes this injustice gives both fighters a real reason to settle things inside the Octagon.
“It’s the first time they have something to fight about, and they collectively have chosen not to.”
Fan Hype Declining as Other Big Fights Emerge
The former UFC star also highlighted growing concerns that the hype around a Makhachev vs Topuria superfight is beginning to fade. With several major matchups now dominating headlines, Sonnen warned that the UFC risks missing the perfect moment to schedule the clash.
A showdown between Topuria and Makhachev, he says, remains one of the most compelling fights the UFC could book—both for rankings clarity and for fan excitement.
