Henry Cejudo Criticizes Khabib’s Role in UFC Matchmaking
Former UFC champion Henry Cejudo has stirred the pot in the MMA world, claiming that Khabib Nurmagomedov is obstructing a potential lightweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria. The controversy comes as Topuria, a former featherweight champion, seeks to make his mark in the lightweight division following his move up to 155 pounds.
Cejudo, known for his outspoken nature, revealed that Khabib believes Topuria should first face top contenders before challenging Makhachev for the lightweight title. “Khabib said it’s not fair for Ilia to skip the line and go after the title shot with Islam because that’s all Islam’s been doing,” Cejudo stated during an interview.
The lightweight division is currently brimming with talent, including Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier, all of whom are vying for a shot at Makhachev’s belt. Gaethje, fresh off a victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, has emerged as a strong candidate for the next title fight. Meanwhile, Oliveira and Poirier remain in the mix, with Oliveira expressing reluctance to face Topuria unless he holds the belt.
Topuria, who boasts an undefeated record of 16 wins in MMA, has accused Makhachev’s camp of avoiding him. However, Cejudo believes that Khabib’s influence is the primary reason behind the delay in booking the fight. “I think Khabib is going to step in and be like, ‘He needs to fight the No. 1 contender,'” Cejudo added.
The UFC’s matchmaking decisions have sparked debates among fans and fighters alike, with many questioning whether Topuria should be granted an immediate title shot or prove himself against established lightweight contenders first.
The lightweight division’s next moves remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: the influence of Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to shape the trajectory of Islam Makhachev’s career and the division as a whole.
