Ilia Topuria has been warned not to get too comfortable holding the UFC`s pound-for-pound top spot.
Topuria continued his swift rise towards legendary status on MMA`s biggest stage at UFC 317 in Las Vegas last Saturday.
Headlining International Fight Week, Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira to claim the vacant lightweight title, taking over from Islam Makhachev in the division.
This result not only earned `El Matador` the lightweight title but also propelled the Spaniard to the top of the P4P rankings for the first time.
However, Daniel Cormier believes this reign might be short-lived.
Daniel Cormier Justifies Putting Islam Makhachev Back Above Ilia Topuria After One Win
On a recent episode of his YouTube show `3 Rounds`, Cormier discussed several prominent MMA topics with fellow former fighter Din Thomas. The updated P4P hierarchy was among them, and `DC` explained his perspective on Topuria`s new position at the summit.
“He is the current number one pound-for-pound fighter,” Cormier stated. “But if Islam succeeds in defeating Jack Della Maddalena, the positions will flip again, and Islam will return to number one.”
Makhachev vacated the UFC lightweight title to pursue glory in a higher weight class. His chance to achieve this goal against the new welterweight king Della Maddalena is anticipated later this year.
“This would prove his fighting style is effective even in the next weight class,” Cormier added. “Islam will have accomplished everything Topuria has, but in a heavier division. Four title defenses at 155 lbs, followed by becoming the new champion at welterweight.”
“Therefore, yes, I agree, he (Topuria) is currently the number one pound-for-pound fighter. However, I believe the instant Islam secures that win, he will reclaim the top P4P spot.”
Islam Makhachev`s Manager Questioned Ilia Topuria`s P4P Ranking Following UFC 317
Makhachev himself has not yet commented on Topuria`s lightweight title win or his rise above him in the P4P rankings. His manager, however, did.
In a post on X, Ali Abdelaziz generated discussion by disputing `El Matador“s claim to the P4P throne and asserting that the number one position rightfully belongs to his fighter.
“Without taking anything away from Ilia, and he is one of the most impressive talents we`ve seen in a long time,” Abdelaziz wrote.
“I simply believe Islam`s 15-fight winning streak in the UFC and his finishes in 9 of his last 10 bouts solidify his position as the number one Pound for Pound fighter.”
