Ilia Topuria captured the featherweight title by stopping Alex Volkanovski atop the UFC 298 pay-per-view (PPV) card back on Feb. 17 in Anaheim, a stunning performance that pushed “El Matador” to 15-0 with 13 finishes.
But fight fans are starting to grow impatient.
It’s been six months since Topuria captured the crown and the promotion is still no closer to booking his first title defense. In addition, his rivals claim “El Matador” is dragging his feet and turning down all available contenders.
Topuria, however, blames Max Holloway for the delay.
“Guy is just making things up at this stage,” Holloway wrote on Twitter. “I been ready.”
“Choose a date, choose the way you want me to beat you, and write it here,” Topuria responded. “I am ready to turn off your lights whenever and wherever. Call Dana.”
“Been talking to them brother,” Holloway fired back. “You need to check your numbers. Since you said it, the Sphere by toe hold. See you soon.”
Holloway (26-7), who ruled the 145-pound roost before handing over the reigns to Alex Volkanovski, is riding a three-fight winning streak, which includes back-to-back knockout wins over Chan Sung Jung and Justin Gaethje.
If UFC CEO Dana White truly wants to make UFC Sphere the “greatest live combat sports show of all time,” Topuria vs. Holloway for the featherweight title would be a great place to start.