UFC legend says Topuria is too arrogant: I’d love to knock him out

The American, who has been crushing opponents in the Octagon for years, is now looking for what he feels is rightfully his - a title fight against the man many see as a future UFC legend. The American believes that he very much deserves the opportunity to fight against the dominant champion who is on his way to engrave himself "deeper" in golden letters in the history of the UFC.

This 35-year-old fighter, known for his explosiveness and merciless kicks, has a clear plan: he wants to attack the lightweight champion Ilija Topuria. Although he has two unsuccessful attempts in the fight for the undisputed belt, he hopes that the third one could be lucky - especially now that the belt is in the hands of the new king.

Last weekend at UFC 317, Topuria brutally knocked out Charles Oliveira in the first round and thereby confirmed that a new era had arrived. And while some expected that a very experienced knockout would be the one to get the call, the UFC decided on Paddy Pimblett and Arman Tsarukyan.

Disappointment and threat of withdrawal

"Topuria is a big name now," said this brutal Austin Keen fighter. "He is arrogant and proud," he added, recalling how Topuria had announced Oliveira's knockout in advance.

"I'd like to knock him out..."

Hoping that UFC 317 would end in a stoppage, to open up an opportunity for him to fight in November at Madison Square Garden - the place where he did the legendary fight against Chandler in 2021 - the fighter already had a plan.

His manager now claims that he is the "closest" to a new title fight. Despite Topuria not mentioning him after the fight, it's clear that many see him as a logical challenger.

If "El Matador" succeeds in defeating this dangerous batsman in his next appearance, it would be difficult to dispute his status among the greatest.

It's hard to predict what will actually happen.