3 fights to make for Islam Makhachev amidst lightweight division drama
As the UFC lightweight division rapidly evolves, it will be intriguing to see who will be Islam Makhachev's next opponent.
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Islam Makhachev's next potential fights (Image via Instagram)
The UFC lightweight division remains the home to exceptionally skilled and talented MMA fighters from around the world. Over the years, fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor, and BJ Penn have made significant impacts in the 155-pound division. Currently, Islam Makhachev, a fighter from Dagestan, reigns as the champion and holds a similar level of prestige.
Islam Makhachev is currently recognized as the top pound-for-pound fighter. One key reason for this accolade is his impressive performance throughout the years. Makhachev made his UFC debut in 2015 and, aside from a defeat in his second outing, he has maintained an unblemished record within the promotion. Most recently, Makhachev secured a victory against Renato Moicano at UFC 311.
Following that, the UFC lightweight division has transformed into an exciting and unpredictable arena. With drama unfolding at every turn, even fighters from lower weight classes are eager to make their mark at 155 lbs, all hoping to challenge the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev. This dynamic landscape creates a thrilling environment to speculate about who will enter the octagon next to compete for the lightweight title.
3. A rematch clash between Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira
Following Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement, the octagon witnessed a thrilling turn of events as Charles Oliveira claimed the vacated UFC lightweight title at UFC 262. However, Oliveira’s reign was destined for an abrupt end when Nurmagomedov’s protege, Islam Makhachev, emerged as a formidable challenger. At UFC 280, Makhachev seized his moment and stopped Oliveira, firmly establishing himself as the new UFC lightweight champion.
A year later, Oliveira was given an opportunity to take his revenge on Makhachev at UFC 294. While everyone anticipated an interesting rematch showdown, it was canceled. Notably, days ahead of the fight, Oliveira pulled himself out because of an injury. Instead of the Brazilian fighter, Makhachev defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski.
Currently, Oliveira is ranked #2 in the UFC lightweight division. He was in talks to become the next challenger for the title following the UFC 311 matchup between Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan. However, significant changes occurred due to Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from UFC 311, and the UFC boss decided not to grant him an immediate title shot. Consequently, Oliveira has emerged as one of the potential opponents for Makhachev.
2. UFC lightweight veteran Justin ‘The Highlight’ Gaethje
Among the top contenders in the UFC lightweight division, Islam Makhachev has already defeated a majority of those fighters. However, there are still a few seasoned veterans in the 155 lbs division who have yet to face the current UFC lightweight champion. One prominent name on this list is Justin Gaethje, a 36-year-old former interim UFC lightweight champion.
Interestingly, over the years, there have been several instances where Makhachev has referred to his potential fight against Gaethje as a dream matchup. Although the ‘Highlight’ has already been defeated by another fighter from Dagestan, he has expressed confidence in his ability to beat Makhachev. However, despite their mutual interest, the two fighters have never come close to facing each other in the UFC octagon.
Currently, in the UFC lightweight division, Gaethje is in a good position for another title fight opportunity. He is scheduled to face Rafael Fiziev in the co-main event of UFC 313. A month ago, Makhachev publicly stated that his potential championship bout with Gaethje will depend on how the ‘Highlight’ performs in this upcoming fight. Therefore, if Gaethje can successfully neutralize Fiziev, he can call his shots for a title match against the champion.
1. Quest for the ‘Champ Champ’ status and fight Belal Muhammad
The UFC community is currently abuzz with several potential champion vs. champion matchups. One of the discussions centers around a possible fight between UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad. Interestingly, Muhammad won the title in the 170 lbs division against Leon Edwards at UFC 304.
Team Khabib, including Makhachev, played a significant role in Muhammad’s preparation for his championship fight. As a result, both UFC champions developed a strong bond and were reluctant to discuss a potential fight between them. However, the UFC community continued to raise the topic. Recently, Makhachev, who has never shied away from expressing his aspirations to become a double champion, possibly hinted at reconsidering his stance on the issue.
Belal Muhammad is currently set to defend his welterweight title for the first time against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. If Muhammad fails to win against the Australian fighter, Makhachev will undoubtedly pursue becoming a double champion. However, if the UFC welterweight champion successfully defends his title, it will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Currently, the UFC has already announced that they have big plans for the Dagestani star.
Related: Islam Makhachev Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife and House
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