Not everyone is impressed by Ilia Topuria’s flawless streak in the UFC.
The UFC lightweight champion has been on an impressive winning run inside the Octagon, securing titles in two different weight divisions, with “El Matador” delivering one of the most memorable three-fight stretches in UFC history.
Topuria achieved knockout victories over Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway at featherweight before decisively defeating Charles Oliveira to claim the 155-pound title last June.
Despite these iconic wins, Shara Magomedov remains unconvinced about the significance of Topuria’s winning streak and the caliber of his opponents.
Shara Magomedov Questions the Caliber of Ilya Topuria’s UFC Victories
While many fans and analysts view Topuria’s return to the UFC as a potential path to GOAT status if his dominance continues, Magomedov expressed skepticism about the quality of Topuria’s challengers during a recent conversation with @metammaplus.
“He’s a good fighter by himself, but if you review his journey to the belt, he faced four or five questionable opponents,” Magomedov commented (via Red Corner MMA). “When he did face serious fighters, they were already past their prime. I believe Charles Oliveira was exhausted.”
“Max Holloway was a tough competitor, but he’s no longer the same fighter,” Magomedov added. “He’s had many hardships in his career and has slowed down. Alexander Volkanovski isn’t at the same level he once was either.”
Magomedov’s Only UFC Defeat Came Against Veteran Michael ‘Venom’ Page
Although Topuria has yet to respond to these criticisms, he might point out Magomedov’s own challenges in the UFC. Unlike Topuria, “Barrett” is not undefeated in the promotion. Magomedov entered the sport with a 15-0 record, including four UFC wins, before suffering his first loss to Michael ‘Venom’ Page at UFC Saudi Arabia in February 2025.
At 38 years old, the British striker was nearing the end of his career and was competing at middleweight for only the second time in a dozen years.
Fan Take: This debate highlights the intense scrutiny elite fighters face, even during undefeated streaks. For fans and the sport as a whole, it underscores the importance of consistently facing the very best competition to validate championship legacies and fuel future rivalries.
