Topuria accused Makhachev of ‘running away’ in response, sparking a war of words on social media. According to one former UFC title challenger, though, there is only one “real” rivalry in MMA — and it’s not Topuria and Makhachev’s.

Chael Sonnen believes Islam Makhachev wanted no part of Ilia Topuria. After Belal Muhammad lost his welterweight title to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315, Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC) vacated his lightweight title for a move up to 170 pounds.

Paddy Pimblett fires back at Ilia Topuria with a sharp “El Chorozio” jab, keeping their heated UFC rivalry alive and entertaining fans.

Ilia Topuria's pursuit of the lightweight title against Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 is marked by a surprising split with his longtime coaches, Jorge a

Topuria (16-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) is unbeaten in his professional MMA career and is coming off back-to-back knockouts of featherweight greats Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. While Pimblett (23-3 MMA, 7-0 UFC) credits Topuria for his accolades, he thinks timing played a major factor in his success.

The pair met on the undercard of UFC 264, a high-profile event that was headlined by Conor McGregor’s trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier. In the lead-up, Topuria spoke to UFC.com and dismissed any concern over Hall’s unique style. ‘El Matador’ predicted that he would avoid any surprises and “smash” the American’s face.

Georgian brothers will have their own team after parting ways with the Climents, with whom they reached elite status in the UFC.