King Khabib’s presence rules out any idea of stripping Islam Makhachev off lightweight belt, says Chael Sonnen

UFC Hall of Famer dismisses rumors about Islam Makhachev getting stripped; gives credit to Khabib Nurmagomedov's massive influence.

King Khabib’s presence rules out any idea of stripping Islam Makhachev off lightweight belt, says Chael Sonnen

Chael Sonnen believes Khabib Nurmagomedov won't let Islam Makhachev get stripped of his lightweight title (via MMA Fighting/X)

Islam Makhachev is the pound-for-pound number one fighter, and has dominated the lightweight division with four title defenses. His loyal fan base spans the globe, eagerly awaiting his next octagon appearance after months of silence and speculative buzz. Unfortunately, negotiations and the selection of a worthy contender have created frustrating delays, keeping fans guessing about his return date.

Recently, UFC Hall of Famers Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen had a long discussion about this on their viral show. During the conversation, the former double champion talked about hearing a rumor that suggested stripping Makhachev of the title. This was following the Dagestani’s rejection to fight Ilia Topuria. In response, Sonnen shared his opinion and mentioned Makhachev’s powerful background. 

There’s no way that’s true. Nobody would dare cross King Khabib. No way. Not in this they wouldn’t even when Khabib tried to give his own damn belt back, they wouldn’t accept it.

Chael Sonnen via The Good Guy/Bad Guy Show 

Despite his retirement, Khabib Nurmagomedov has been active as a coach for his teammates, such as Makhachev, Umar Nurmagomedov, etc. He is still the man who takes most of the calls on their team and has a massive influence. Few weeks ago, he rejected the idea of Makhachev vs. Topuria, citing that a win won’t add anything to the Dagestani’s legacy. 

A few months ago, Topuria vacated his featherweight title, aiming to challenge Makhachev for the lightweight championship. Despite skipping contenders, Topuria remained adamant about earning a title shot without defeating any ranked lightweight opponents in the division. Sonnen also chimed in with his trademark analysis, speculating on deeper motives behind Topuria’s controversial move.

They’re trying to insist to us that Ilia Topuria vacated the title. I’m willing to play along, but they only vacated the title because they say he vacated the title. If you look at the actions of what actually happened, he was stripped.

Chael Sonnen continued. 

Recent reports have suggested that both Topuria and Makhachev have begun their training camp, showing signs of potential match-ups. However, at the same time, top lightweight contender Charles Oliveira has also hinted at a comeback, making things more interesting. For now, there has been no official announcement that could potentially dilute the ongoing drama in the lightweight division. 

Chael Sonnen shares insider knowledge on Islam Makhachev’s next opponent 

Islam Makhachev’s last outing was at UFC 311, where he submitted Renato Moicano, a short-notice opponent, with relative ease. After the fight, the champ announced that he’s ready to fight anybody, but also shared his intentions to move up. Following that, he talked about potentially fighting a fresh candidate, a lightweight veteran to boost his legacy. 

Islam Makhachev to fight Justin Gaethje next
Islam Makhachev to fight Justin Gaethje next (via X)

All this delay and drama have put Makhachev in the wrong light, but that doesn’t seem to bother the pound-for-pound number one. Chael Sonnen has been pretty active in this drama, posting his theories and insider scoops. In a recent video, the veteran talked about Makhachev potentially fighting Justin Gaethje next. 

I’ve been informed that Islam Makhachev will defend his championship against Justin Gaethje at International Fight Weekend. Tsarukyan has been oddly quiet… Charles already fought Islam, which then brings you to Dustin Poirier, who’s excluded, because he’s in a retirement fight ….Paddy is the next best thing, but he needs one more. You’re left with Justin Gaethje. All of that is accurate. If the source who’s never been wrong yet, to me, is right!

Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel 

Gaethje’s last fight was at UFC 313, where he went on a war against Rafael Fiziev and won via unanimous decision. The win put the ‘Highlight’ at the #3 position in the lightweight rankings, a sweet spot to fight for the title. If this fight materializes, it will be Gaethje’s third and possibly the last shot at a UFC undisputed championship belt. 

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