Islam Makhachev took a shot at Ilia Topuria on social media after Topuria's loss to Justin Gaethje on Sunday at UFC Freedom 250.
What happened?
Ilia Topuria suffered his first professional MMA loss, retiring on his stool at the end of Round 4.
Justin Gaethje won the UFC undisputed lightweight championship, handing Topuria his first loss.
Why it matters for Islam Makhachev
A potential super fight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria was being targeted for an end-of-the-year event.
This fight would have been a major bout, with both fighters having impressive unbeaten streaks.
What comes next?
Ilia Topuria will likely face a six-month or greater layoff after his loss to Justin Gaethje.
A win in his next fight could put him back in title contention and potentially set up a bout against Islam Makhachev in 2027.
Islam Makhachev has a 16-fight unbeaten streak, with wins over notable fighters like Alexander Volkanovski and Charles Oliveira.
Ilia Topuria had a 17-fight unbeaten streak before his loss to Justin Gaethje.
The rivalry between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria will likely continue, with both fighters having made it clear they don't like each other.
Islam Makhachev posted on social media, "To quit in the biggest fight of your career - is something not everybody can do. Real Le Layenda".
This post was seen as a shot at Ilia Topuria, who retired on his stool at the end of Round 4.
The UFC matchmakers and fans were disappointed in Topuria's loss, as it squashed any hope of a super fight between him and Islam Makhachev.
The potential super fight would have been a major event, with both fighters having a large following and impressive skills in the UFC.
Islam Makhachev's reaction to Ilia Topuria's loss has added fuel to the fire, and their rivalry will likely continue in the UFC.