Islam Makhachev says Ilia Topuria quit against Justin Gaethje

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev wasted no time weighing in on Justin Gaethje's TKO victory over Ilia Topuria, suggesting the former featherweight titleholder quit when the stakes were highest.

In a social media post captured by Sherdog, Makhachev wrote that Topuria's performance demonstrated "there's levels in this game" and congratulated Gaethje on earning the belt. "To quit in the biggest fight of your career is something not everybody can do," Makhachev added, closing with the line "Real Le Layenda" and a smiling emoji.

What Makhachev's comments reveal about lightweight contender landscape

The remarks follow months of back-and-forth between Makhachev and Topuria, who had floated a potential move to lightweight before his setback against Gaethje. Topuria previously claimed he would present problems for Makhachev's grappling-heavy style, but the loss appears to have settled that debate for now.

Makhachev's post frames the result as validation of his own standing atop the 155-pound division, where Gaethje remains a perennial contender. The Russian champion opened by writing "He who exalts himself will be humbled," a jab at Topuria's pre-fight confidence.

No immediate response from Topuria has surfaced. Gaethje's next opponent and timeline remain unclear following his latest stoppage win.

Source: sherdog.com