In a new controversy that has sparked controversy in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), the undefeated UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, has launched a direct and sarcastic mockery against the current lightweight champion, lli Topuria. During an interview in Madrid with a sports media channel, Topuria said:

“Islam Makhachev waited until June, the month of pride, to wake up. What a coincidence, right?”

The phrase, apparently launched in a mocking tone, unleashed an immediate reaction not only among fans but also from the Makhachev team, which soon responded with a forcefulness rarely seen in the media scene of the UFC.

A free mockery or a calculated provocation?

Topuria, of Georgian and Spanish roots, has become famous not only for its explosive style within the octagon, but also for its statements without filter. The phrase about Makhachev – who plays with a double interpretation of the term “awakening” in the context of the “Pride Month” – was seen by many as an intentional attempt to ridicule the Russian champion while celebrating the struggles for LGBTQ+rights.

In social networks, the phrase immediately. Some interpreted it as a criticism of the late “media awakening” of Makhachev, who recently announced that he is ready to climb to the welter weight or accept super fights. Others, however, saw her as a homophobic comment disguised as a joke.

The Makhachev Islam team response

It was not long before the Makhachev team – between Javier Mendez and with the support of figures such as Khabib Nurmagomedov – published a statement from his camp in Daguestán:

“Respect is fundamental in this sport. Ilia Topuria not only crossed a line, but showed a total class lack. Islam does not need to answer with words, she will answer with facts. If Topuria wants to speak as a champion, who goes up to the octagon with one.”

Throughout the day, several members of the Makhachev team intensified their answer, calling Topuria “media clown” and accusing him of seeking relevance “with insults that have nothing to do with sport.”

MMA world reaction

The most recognized figures in the world of mixed martial arts soon comment on the verbal confrontation. Daniel Cormier, former UFC champion and current commentator, said in his program:

“Topuria is playing with fire. There is a way of selling fights, and there is another to play with themes that can become against you very fast. Islam is very respected. Be careful to wake up the monster.”

For his part, Chael Sonnen – known for his sharp language – defended Topuria:

“What did they expect? This is fighting, no Mass. Ilia is doing what many do not dare: turn fire for a super fight.”

The journalist Megan Olivi, however, was more critical and said that “humor cannot be an excuse for double -edged comments that can offend entire communities.”

Is a super fight coming?

This crossing of statements has lit rumors about a possible fight between both champions. While Topuria competes by weight weight (145 lbs) and Makhachev by light weight (155 lbs), fans already dream of a champions fight, especially after public tensions.

Dana White, president of UFC, was briefly consulted during a press event in Las Vegas and, laughing, said:

“If they continue like this, they will resolve it where it should: inside the octagon. And I am happy to put that fight as a stellar of a PPV.”

Analysts speculate that, if this crossing continues, UFC could try to organize a fight in October or November, perhaps in Abu Dhabi, where Makhachev usually fights, or even in Spain, a country that has seen the popularity of Topuria grow.

What does Ilia Topuria say now?

So far, Ilia has not retracted her words. Through his Instagram account he published a story with the phrase:

“If the truth annoys, imagine when my right hand comes.”

This message was interpreted by many as a reaffirmation of his previous comment, accompanied by an image of his training with the subtitle:“Kings do not ask permission.”

What began as a sarcastic phrase has become an international conflict that transcends sport. In an era where athletes are increasingly aware of their public image and their social impact, Topuria has opted for the path of challenge, without filters. Makhachev, on the other hand, maintains the warrior’s position: respond with respect, but not shy away.

Are we facing a new legendary rivalry in the UFC? Everything points to yes. And if the fire was already lit outside the octagon, fans can only expect them to take it to the center of the cage.