With hopes fading of a dream clash between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev, the question is: who will the lightweight champion fight next?

There are only two fighters who have survived against Topuria in MMA. Josh Emmett, who was praised for his toughness across five rounds, and another featherweight, who could go all the way to the title. Youssef Zalal is the first and only fighter to reach a three-round decision with Topuria.

Ilia Topuria might have the ability to become the first ever three-division champion in UFC history but he says the promotion already asked him not to make a move up to welterweight just yet.