The hypothetical matchup between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev represents a compelling clash of two of MMA’s most exciting and dominant fighters. Both competitors bring contrasting skill sets and approaches to the cage, making this fight a true test of who can impose their game on the other. Topuria, known for his explosive power, precision striking, and slick submissions, would face off against Makhachev, the master of suffocating wrestling, elite grappling, and top-tier cage control. A potential fight between the two would go beyond just technical skills, becoming a battle of styles, mental fortitude, and pound-for-pound (P4P) dominance.

1. Striking vs. Grappling: A Test of Styles

Topuria, a featherweight with a background in boxing and jiu-jitsu, possesses knockout power and crisp striking. His ability to land devastating blows early in fights makes him a dangerous striker in any exchange. On the other hand, Makhachev is known for his ability to take opponents down and neutralize their striking through relentless pressure. This would be a classic test of whether a dynamic striker like Topuria could land a fight-ending shot before Makhachev imposes his wrestling game. Makhachev’s ability to close the distance and secure takedowns would be key to neutralizing Topuria’s power.

2. Grappling Mastery: Submissions vs. Control

Both fighters excel in grappling, but in different ways. Makhachev’s wrestling, heavily influenced by Dagestani combat sambo, allows him to control opponents on the ground with ease, wearing them down and securing submissions through dominance. Topuria, on the other hand, has a sneaky submission game of his own, with a Brazilian jiu-jitsu background that includes lightning-fast chokes and scrambles. The clash between Makhachev’s smothering top control and Topuria’s dynamic submission attempts would add another layer of intrigue to the fight.

3. Mental Toughness and Cage IQ

Both Makhachev and Topuria have shown incredible mental toughness in their respective fights. Makhachev’s patience and ability to follow a game plan, regardless of pressure, are hallmarks of his approach. Topuria, on the other hand, has shown resilience in overcoming adversity, bouncing back from tough moments in fights with impressive composure. This matchup would test who can maintain their composure under fire and adjust mid-fight to turn the tide.

4. Cardio and Fight Durability

Makhachev’s style often involves grinding down opponents over the course of multiple rounds, relying on his superior cardio and endurance to wear them out. Topuria, while powerful, tends to finish fights quickly but has not been tested in extended grappling-heavy contests like Makhachev’s previous opponents. A five-round fight between the two would likely reveal whose gas tank can last longer in high-intensity exchanges, especially when grappling-heavy scrambles occur.

5. Weight Class and Size

While Topuria currently fights at featherweight, Makhachev is a dominant force in the lightweight division. The size and strength difference could play a significant role in the outcome, as Makhachev’s physicality has been a deciding factor in many of his victories. If Topuria were to move up to lightweight, it would be interesting to see how he handles the size and strength of a fighter like Makhachev, who has made a career out of overpowering elite lightweights.

6. A Battle for P4P Recognition

Both fighters have begun to establish themselves in the pound-for-pound rankings conversation. Makhachev, with his dominant lightweight reign, and Topuria, with his rapid rise through the featherweight ranks, would make this fight more than just about a divisional clash—it would be about solidifying their status as one of the best fighters in the world, regardless of weight class. The winner of this hypothetical matchup could propel themselves to a higher standing in the P4P rankings.