Overview

• Nurmagomedov, 19-0, argued his résumé is stronger than Topuria’s and said he will claim top status only after his October 3 rematch with Paul Hughes.
• Despite Islam Makhachev moving toward welterweight, Nurmagomedov maintained Makhachev still occupies the lightweight pinnacle until he officially departs.
• Topuria remains the UFC lightweight champion following his June knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, extending his unbeaten record to 17-0.
• Georgian reporter Giorgi Kokiashvili said a rumored Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje title fight is not happening and asserted the UFC has different plans for both fighters.
• Aleksandre Topuria is reportedly set for November 22 in Qatar against Bekzat Almakhan, and indications that Ilia will coach have fueled talk that his first defense may slip to early 2026, with unconfirmed speculation also linking Paddy Pimblett as a possible challenger.