Kamaru Usman has shared his thoughts on who Ilia Topuria should face next, and it might not be what many expect.
Topuria, boasting a perfect record of 16 wins and no losses, has relinquished his featherweight title to move up to the lightweight division. While Topuria has his sights set on an immediate title shot against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, Usman suggests a different path.
Usman initially mentioned Dan Hooker as a potential opponent but quickly shifted his focus to Mateusz Gamrot (24-3 MMA, 7-3 UFC).
Speaking on the “Pound 4 Pound with Kamaru & Henry” podcast, Usman stated, “Ilia Topuria versus Mateusz Gamrot. The thing we haven`t often seen is Ilia Topuria fighting off his back. Gamrot is a relentless wrestler with a strong track record in the lightweight division. Although his style might not be the most exciting for fans, he is a serious contender for the title. His fight against Arman Tsarukyan was highly competitive.”
Gamrot has expressed interest in this matchup.
Usman also offered his matchmaking ideas for the rest of the lightweight division.
“If I were to make the fight card, I’d book Islam against Justin Gaethje,” Usman proposed. “Following that, for Dustin Poirier’s potential retirement fight, a third match with Max Holloway would be fantastic. Then, Arman Tsarukyan against Charles Oliveira, and the winner of Chandler versus Pimblett facing Dan Hooker. That’s what I would do.”
