Team Ilia Topuria has fired a warning shot, and it could be the biggest one yet from the featherweight king’s corner. As Topuria sets his sights on the UFC lightweight division throne, his striking coach has sent a message that requires attention. Not simply a promise of triumph, but a declaration of total annihilation targeted at two of the game’s most dangerous guys. What exactly did he say? It’s the type of statement that gets people’s attention—and if it turns out to be accurate, it might permanently tip the balance at 155.
In a recent interview, Topuria’s striking teacher, Javi Climent, stated unequivocally that his student would “k*ll” both Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira in a striking combat. Not out of disrespect, but with a strong conviction based on years of preparation. “It’s clear to me that it k*lls Islam,” Climent said. “It’s even evident that he k*lls Charles Oliveira. I’m 100% certain.” It wasn’t simply confident speech; it was a calculated read from someone who had personally witnessed ‘La Leyenda’ smash elite-level fighters.
Climent did not end there. He went on to say that Charles Oliveira, in particular, would not be able to prepare for the Spanish-Georgian’s strike. “I don’t know how Oliveira could prepare for a fight with Ilia,” he said. “At the top, Ilia would k*ll him.” These are not careless statements from a casual spectator; they come from a coach who witnessed Topuria earn the featherweight belt by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski before handing Max Holloway his first KO loss. That’s not an opinion. This is cold, obvious destruction.
Now that Ilia Topuria has vacated the 145-pound belt and is awaiting approval for his lightweight debut, the talk around him is louder than ever. Whether Islam Makhachev defends the belt or moves up to welterweight, the Spanish-Georgian’s team claims the UFC has promised him the next shot. With an undefeated record and two knockouts of legends, ‘La Leyenda’ doesn’t need to say anything. His coach did it for him, and the message is clear: when Topuria starts swinging at 155, no one is safe. But is it actually the truth? Well, not according to fight fans.
Fans call out Ilia Topuria’s coach for the massive claim
Javi Climent, Ilia Topuria’s coach, made a strong statement about ‘La Leyenda’ “k*lling” both Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira in the striking department, and fans reacted negatively. While Climent’s comments were certainly motivated by his belief in Topuria’s ability, the MMA world was less enthusiastic about the buildup. Fans of Makhachev quickly responded, pointing out that Topuria’s experience at lightweight isn’t as impressive as it seems. After all, the former featherweight champion came close to losing in his only UFC lightweight fight when Jai Herbert sent him to the ground with a vicious head kick. That fight went in Topuria’s favor, but many fans couldn’t get over the close call, especially given Islam Makhachev’s perfect performances, including his shocking knockout of Alexander Volkanovski.
Fans of the Dagestani claimed that, while Topuria was dangerous in the striking department, Makhachev’s versatility and grappling ability would put him at a disadvantage. “Islam isn’t striking with him, and when it goes to the ground, it’s over,” one fan observed, stressing Makhachev’s depth of game. Others responded, calling the allegation ridiculous: “These two best featherweights are just breakfast for Islam.” It wasn’t just about the talents; some fans quickly reminded everyone of the distinction between the two sports. “This is not boxing. This is MMA, man — Islam Makhachev,” one comment read, implying that Topuria’s striking will struggle to shine against someone who can dominate the fight on the ground.
Then, as is common in the realm of mixed martial arts, the mocking brigade appeared. While some fans focused on technical critiques, others were more sarcastic. “Sure mate ” and “Chill buddy ” became the go-to responses, showing many people’s disbelief in Climent’s claim. A few fans joked about the continuous references to Topuria’s name, saying, “Ilia this, Ilia that,” as if they were sick of hearing the same thing over and over. But arguably the most cutting remark came from a fan who wrote, “When talking is free, you’ll pay for it in action,” implying that while words are cheap, the fight is what actually separates the contenders from the pretenders. But what do you think? Will Ilia Topuria be able to prove his critics wrong? Let us know in the comments.
The post Calls Mount Against Ilia Topuria as Coach Crosses a Line With Islam Makhachev & Charles Oliveira With “Kill” Remarks appeared first on EssentiallySports.
