Ilia Topuria sets sights on double-champ status against Islam Makhachev after UFC 308 clash with Max Holloway: "Real soon"

Ilia Topuria has not competed since UFC 298 in February when he defeated Alexander Volkanovski via second-round knockout to capture the featherweight title. He will look to defend his belt for the first time later this month when he faces Max Holloway at UFC 308. 'El Matador' recently revealed that he has his eyes set on Islam Makhachev if he gets through his upcoming opponent.

Speaking on Instagram Live, Topuria was asked if he believes he could beat the lightweight champion, responding in Spanish:

"How many times [will people ask] already, right? Absolutely. Of course... Makhachev, real soon. [I] hope Makhachev will be next after this fight. [I] hope after this fight."

Check out Ilia Topuria's comments on facing Islam Makhachev below:

While Topuria has his sights set on challenging Makhachev for double-champ status, he will first have to get through Holloway. Meanwhile, the lightweight champion is currently recovering from a hand injury and is not expected to return until next year. He appears likely to face Arman Tsarukyan as he attempts to break the lightweight record with his fourth title defense.

Even if both fighters are able to retain their titles, it is unlikely that a bout between the two will materialize in the near future. It is difficult to envision the UFC granting the featherweight champion an opportunity to challenge for double-champ status with just one title defense.

Ilia Topuria previously took aim at Islam Makhachev

Ilia Topuria's recent comments on Instagram Live were not his first time taking aim at Islam Makhachev this week. Speaking in a previous Instagram Live appearance, the featherweight champion shared his interest in going up to lightweight, noting that he has previously done so. He was then asked if he saw himself facing the champion in the 155-pound division, responding in Spanish:

"The truth is that of course I do. He's a great fighter. Sometimes he talks too much, sometimes not, but we can always resolve it in the octagon. Not in the streets because I'll have to pay for his medical bills."

Check out Ilia Topuria's previous comments about Islam Makhachev below:

Topuria's comments drew a response from Usman Nurmagomedov, who trains alongside Makhachev, as he suggested that the featherweight champion has never fought on the streets. This led 'El Matador' to question if the Bellator lightweight champion is still using steroids following his suspension for a positive test.