by - soumya ranjan
Once doubted by many to be in the title contender debate, Islam Makhachev is currently the reigning lightweight champion. The Dagestani has come a long way, and throughout his journey he has defeated many tough opponents.
Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan Arman Tsarukyan is currently considered one of the best lightweights in the division. But when the Armenian fought Makhachev, he couldn't do much but take the fight to the end. Makhachev was declared the winner via unanimous decision, and the fight was declared the "Fight of the Night."
Islam Makhachev vs. Thiago Moisés Islam Makhachev's first ever main event fight was against Thiago Moisés at UFC 31 in Las Vegas. It was the first time a fighter took Makhachev to the fourth round. In the end, Makhachev won the fight via submission.
Islam Makhachev vs. Drew Dober In this fight against Drew Dober, Islam Makhachev told the world that he's a threat to the top fighters. Dober was well known for his wrestling; however, Makhachev easily controlled him and finished him in the third round.
Islam Makhachev vs. Dan Hooker When Makhachev was climbing the rankings, many fighters avoided him. However, it was Dan Hooker who decided to go face-to-face with Makhachev. However, after all of Hooker's trash talking in the first round, it did not go as well.
Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira Islam Makhachev's biggest and most important win is definitely the one where he became the UFC lightweight champion. The Dagestani shocked the world by defeating Charles Oliveira convincingly with a submission. At that moment, Makhachev silenced all his detractors by demonstrating why he was levels ahead of all other lightweights.