There are only two fighters who have survived against Topuria in MMA. Josh Emmett, who was praised for his toughness across five rounds, and another featherweight, who could go all the way to the title. Youssef Zalal is the first and only fighter to reach a three-round decision with Topuria.

Volkanovski (27-5 MMA, 14-4 UFC), who saw his first featherweight title reign come to an end at the hands of Topuria by knockout at UFC 298 in February 2024, urges fighters to try and grapple "El Matador," and push him to unchartered waters.