Who can stop Islam Makhachev? Topuria might be the answer

Who can stop Islam Makhachev? This is a question that has been floating around among freestyle wrestling fans for a long time. Before anyone seriously threatened his throne in the lightweight division, the great Dagestani decided to leave that division and try his hand at welterweight, where he will fight for a new belt later this year.

However, one young fighter appeared who caught the eye of many - Ilia Topuria. This fearless fighter of Georgian-Spanish origin showed more and more signs that he could be the biggest threat to the dominant Makhachev. Previously, names such as Charles Oliveira, Beneil Dariush and even Benoit Saint Denis were often mentioned in these discussions. Saint Denis in particular attracted attention with his series of victories and brutal fighting style.

The fall of the dangerous Frenchman

Saint Denis, a former special from France, has registered five straight victories in the UFC lightweight division, looking more lethal and complete from match to match. His ruthless approach and ability to take on the fight in all segments inspired awe. However, everything changed in March of last year, when he faced the legendary Dustin Poirier at UFC 299.

There was a lot of controversy surrounding that fight. "He's jumping the ladder," many said, as the 12th-ranked challenger suddenly found himself in the cage with a veteran like Poirier. However, the first round hinted that the Frenchman could surprise. He dominated most of the round, recording 38 significant strikes and two takedowns.

Poirier was clearly outmatched.

The second round was a completely different story. Although he opened well and avoided a guillotine, BSD again went into an open exchange. Poirier, as a more experienced and technically refined fighter, punished him for this recklessness. A left hook shook the Frenchman, and after another guillotine attempt and a short pause, Dustin landed a right hook and brutally knocked out his opponent.

"He Shuts Down BSD to the Delight of Miami" – so many headlines read.

It was a painful fall, although Saint Denis later mentioned that he fought under the influence of a staph infection. However, his impatience and desire to fight in the open paid a high price.