Islam Makhachev hopes Ilia Topuria rebounds from Justin Gaethje loss

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev commented on Ilia Topuria's first career loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 in June, expressing hope that the defeat will motivate Topuria (17-1 MMA) to return stronger, citing his punching power, wrestling, and ground skills. Makhachev, who was once on a collision course with Topuria for a potential fight that never materialized, told Demetrious Johnson that Topuria is still young and has time to reclaim a title. Makhachev (28-1 MMA) is set to make his first welterweight title defense against Ian Machado Garry (17-1 MMA) in the UFC 330 main event at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on Saturday, broadcast on Paramount+.