Mendez Names Topuria As Nurmagomedov's Toughest UFC Test

American Kickboxing Academy head coach Javier Mendez believes Ilia Topuria would present the stiffest challenge for Usman Nurmagomedov if the unbeaten lightweight joins the UFC roster.

Nurmagomedov knocked out Archie Colgan in the first round Friday to retain his PFL lightweight title and push his record to 22-0. The former Bellator champion is widely seen as the top 155-pounder outside the UFC, and speculation about a promotion switch has intensified since the finish.

Topuria Tops Mendez's List Of Threats

Speaking on Submission Radio, as reported by MMA Junkie and BJPenn.com, Mendez said the featherweight kingpin would be the most difficult stylistic matchup for his fighter. "He matches up extremely well with every one of those guys," Mendez said. "The guy who's going to be the toughest puzzle, in my opinion, is Topuria. He's going to be the toughest puzzle, but we'll get him solved, too."

Mendez added that he wants no tune-up fights if Nurmagomedov makes the move. He mentioned Arman Tsarukyan alongside Topuria as ideal debut opponents, though he expects UFC matchmakers might instead offer Paddy Pimblett or Max Holloway. Either way, the AKA coach said his fighter should face a top-five opponent straight away.

Nurmagomedov would be the second member of the famed Dagestani clan to compete in the UFC after cousin Khabib retired undefeated at lightweight in 2020.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Ilia Topuria would be Usman Nurmagomedov’s toughest test in UFC, renowned coach predicts