Nikolija Milosevic targets UFC shot with Topuria-Makhachev hybrid style

Nikolija Milosevic is ready for a shot in the UFC.

Surging bantamweight fighter Nikolija Milosevic believes her style combines the skills of three of the top fighters on the planet, and hopes to show the world that skill set in the UFC octagon.

Since losing a split decision in her pro debut in November 2023, the Serbian fighter has impressed with an eight-fight unbeaten run, finishing five opponents. In her most recent appearance, she handed Dina Osman her first career loss via unanimous decision at BRAVE CF 104 in February.

Milosevic says she draws inspiration from Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev and Khamzat Chimaev.

“I like Ilia Topuria, Islam Makhachev, Khamzat, because I have a very similar style to them,” Milosevic said. “Ilia has great standup and pressures opponents, while Islam suffocates people on the ground. I like that combination.”

The 29-year-old has competed in combat sports since her teenage years, transitioning from kickboxing to jiu-jitsu before finding her path in MMA. She won multiple IMMAF world titles as an amateur before turning professional.

Milosevic has been on many prospect lists for a UFC call and believes her time is now.

“I haven’t spoken directly with the UFC, everything goes through my management,” she said. “But I’ve been told I was supposed to get the call earlier. It hasn’t happened yet, but opportunities for women are coming back, so I just have to stay ready.”

With rumors of the UFC heading to Serbia later this year, Milosevic says it would mean everything to fight on such a card.

“That’s what I’ve worked for my whole life. It would be surreal. I’d have to pinch myself a million times.”

Despite interest from other promotions like PFL, Milosevic remains focused on one goal.

“UFC is the only thing for me. It’s now or never.”