Fans have been clamoring for a showdown between Ilia Topuria and the UFC’s pound-for-pound king, Islam Makhachev. The lightweight division’s next moves hinged on the outcome of UFC 315 in Montreal last weekend. Jack Della Maddalena’s upset victory over Belal Muhammad for the welterweight title opened the door for Makhachev, the 155-pound champion, to jump divisions, as his friend no longer holds the belt.

Topuria is now set to face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title, but “El Matador” isn’t letting Makhachev slip away without a fiery exchange. The two former champions have been trading barbs following Topuria’s comments about the Oliveira fight at a press conference. Makhachev fired back on social media, prompting a sharp response from Topuria, who branded the Russian a “coward.”

Makhachev had argued that while both fighters vacated their titles to move up, he had already conquered the top contenders, unlike Topuria, whom he called a “nobody” at lightweight. He accused Topuria of “running” from featherweight after just one title defense. Topuria kept his retort brief, claiming Makhachev was dodging him. In a translated jab, Topuria added, “You’re a little boy,” escalating their feud.

Topuria’s message read: “The difference between you and me is that I am a man and you are a coward. I speak and fight. You talk and hide. Run away far, leaving no trace. Ты маленький пацан.”

Since his UFC debut, Topuria’s brash confidence has polarized fans. Khamzat Chimaev, reflecting on meeting Topuria years ago, called him a “decent, solid guy” despite his controversial persona.

With Makhachev now eyeing welterweight, the anticipated clash with Topuria is on hold, but the Spaniard’s provocative comments ensure this rivalry will only grow hotter. When the two finally meet, it promises to be a blockbuster.