Phoenix 24
Malki Kawa delivers a forceful response as tensions rise over a potential showdown with Usman Nurmagomedov.
Miami, United States | August 2026
Ilia Topuria’s manager, Malki Kawa, has stepped forward to defend the Spanish-Georgian fighter after rival manager Ali Abdelaziz claimed that Usman Nurmagomedov could defeat him if the undefeated lightweight eventually joins the UFC. The exchange has intensified speculation surrounding what could become one of the most compelling rivalries in the division.
Abdelaziz, who represents several prominent fighters connected to the Dagestani school of mixed martial arts, has openly promoted Nurmagomedov as a potential opponent for Topuria. The PFL lightweight champion recently completed his existing contractual obligations and has emerged as one of the most closely watched fighters potentially available to the UFC.
Kawa responded emphatically, arguing that Topuria remains capable of defeating the elite fighters represented by Abdelaziz. He also defended his fighter following the recent setback against Justin Gaethje, describing the defeat as a difficult night rather than evidence that Topuria’s position among the world’s leading mixed martial artists has fundamentally changed.
The verbal confrontation extends beyond the two fighters. Abdelaziz represents names including Gaethje and other leading competitors, while Kawa’s intervention has effectively transformed the discussion into a broader rivalry between two influential management camps within elite MMA.
Nurmagomedov’s future remains central to the story. His undefeated record, championship experience and connection to one of combat sports’ most successful fighting traditions make a possible transition to the UFC particularly significant. A matchup with Topuria, however, would represent an extraordinary challenge for any newcomer to the organization.
For now, the confrontation remains outside the Octagon. But the increasingly personal exchanges between both camps have created the foundation for a potential blockbuster fight—one in which sporting ambition, reputation and one of MMA’s most recognizable rivalries could eventually collide.
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