With hopes fading of a dream clash between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev, the question is: who will the lightweight champion fight next?

There are only two fighters who have survived against Topuria in MMA. Josh Emmett, who was praised for his toughness across five rounds, and another featherweight, who could go all the way to the title. Youssef Zalal is the first and only fighter to reach a three-round decision with Topuria.