There have been comparisons made between Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria’s fighting styles, but according to UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev “Notorious” is on “another level.”
Given Topuria’s innate knockout ability and counter-striking prowess, he’s drawn a lot of comparisons to a young McGregor. Topuria has also won titles in two separate UFC weight classes, which is yet another direct correlation to McGregor. Topuria currently holds the UFC lightweight belt, but has yet to defend it.
Despite the comparisons and similar accolades, many fellow fighters would still pick vintage McGregor over current Topuria. McGregor’s ability to score counter punches and create space to land a fight-ending blow is sort of legendary, which is why some are reluctant to give Topuria his flowers.
Makhachev is someone who believes McGregor’s Octagon presence remains unmatched when it comes to striking. Check it out below and let us know your take!
“I think when it comes to pure power, maybe Topuria has more,” said Makhachev during a recent interview with Ushatayka. “But as a counter-puncher, I think McGregor was better.
“His timing, how he waited… The way he met his opponents with his left hand, making them miss and countering. I think that was on another level.”
