Islam Makhachev says he feels sorry for Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira ahead of their UFC 317 headliner.
Topuria and Oliveira are set to battle for the vacant title this Saturday, but the build-up has been quieter than expected for an International Fight Week main event.
Many fans had hoped for different matchups entirely, and Makhachev himself has added to the conversation by voicing his lack of enthusiasm about the fight.
Islam Makhachev criticizes lack of buzz around Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira
Speaking to MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, Makhachev was blunt in his assessment of this Saturday’s event.
“I just feel bad, man. Nobody speaks about International Fight Week. Nobody speaks about main event,” Makhachev said.
“What is this, man? Please, let’s promote a little bit. Okay? Do some work,” he added.
Despite stepping back from lightweight and moving up to welterweight, Makhachev remains closely tied to the division – and the criticism comes as he prepares for a fresh chapter of his own career.
Ilia Topuria doesn’t want Islam Makhachev to get an immediate title fight at lightweight
Topuria may be focused on Oliveira for now, but questions continue about a potential fight with Makhachev down the line – especially if Topuria walks away with the belt.
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However, Topuria was clear that he wouldn’t grant Makhachev an immediate title shot.
“If he loses, I don’t give him anything,” Topuria said in Spanish (via Alvaro Colmenero).
The Spaniard also ruled out potential title defences against Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett. In his view, they need to prove more before earning a fight for the belt.
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