Overview

• Usman Nurmagomedov questioned Ilia Topuria’s claim as the world’s top lightweight, saying he will declare himself No. 1 if he defeats Paul Hughes next.
• Nurmagomedov, the reigning PFL lightweight champion, is unbeaten and set for a rematch with Hughes on October 3 after a controversial majority decision in January.
• Georgian reporter Giorgi Kokiashvili said a rumored Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje title fight is “not happening” and claimed the UFC has different plans for both.
• Aleksandre Topuria is reportedly targeted to face Bekzat Almakhan on November 22 in Qatar, with Ilia expected to resume coaching duties that could delay his defense.
• Spanish reporter Alvaro Colmenero has indicated Topuria is likelier to return in early 2026, while divisional chatter has Arman Tsarukyan exploring an eliminator and a Pimblett grudge match floated as a possibility.