Islam Makhachev Elevates McGregor’s Countering Over Topuria’s Power, Keeps Cool on Rival’s Taunts

Overview

• In a new Ushatayka interview, Makhachev said Conor McGregor’s counter-punching and timing were “on another level,” while conceding Ilia Topuria may have greater pure offensive power.
• Responding to Topuria’s insults, Makhachev said they would “sort it out,” possibly in the cage, and framed the hostility as a misunderstanding.
• Topuria recently vowed to finish Makhachev and said he would submit him “in front of Khabib” and “step on his head” if needed.
• Earlier this year Makhachev vacated lightweight to move to 170 pounds, after which Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 and later secured a second divisional title.
• McGregor has rejoined the UFC testing pool and is training toward a 2026 return, with a June 14 fight against Michael Chandler reported as a possibility pending confirmation.