“This belt for the bums” – Islam Makhachev brutally trolls top superstars in UFC by taking dig at BMF title
UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev speaks up on the BMF title in a recent interview with Daniel Cormier. Says the title is for bums. Reveals his choice for the Poirier vs Gaethje fight

Islam Makhachev speaks up his mind on the BMF title ( Image source: L/R-Getty Images )
Islam Makhachev has made it clear that he has no interest in the BMF (Baddest Mother F****r) title, signaling his dedication to traditional championships. As the current undisputed UFC lightweight champion, Makhachev prefers to observe the upcoming UFC 291 event on July 29, featuring the highly-anticipated rematch between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje for the BMF title, from the sidelines.
His reservations about the BMF strap stem from his unwavering commitment to the sport’s purest form. Given his status as a UFC champion, Makhachev believes that the BMF belt, associated with 155-pound contenders, is something he wants to avoid. During a conversation with Daniel Cormier, Makhachev expressed his disinterest, stating, “I don’t want any part of that. This belt is for the underdogs, you know? They handed it to Nate Diaz and [Jorge] Masvidal, who will never become champions. They need to put an end to this after the first time.”
Furthermore, Makhachev shared his views on Poirier and Gaethje, the contenders fighting for the BMF title. He highlighted that despite their past encounters with the real lightweight belt, both fighters have consistently fallen short. Makhachev perceives Dana White‘s decision to grant them the BMF title as unnecessary. He firmly conveyed his stance, stating, “Even if someone were to give me that belt tomorrow, I wouldn’t want it. Keep it far away from me. Never mention a fight between the lightweight champion and the BMF champion, alright?”
Following his recent victory at UFC 289, where Charles Oliveira triumphed over Beneil Dariush, Makhachev’s potential rematch with Oliveira seems likely. The two fighters have a history, with Makhachev having defeated Oliveira to earn his lightweight championship.
Islam Makhachev wants no association with the BMF title

The winner of the Poirier vs. Gaethje rematch could also present a compelling case for a title shot, as they have yet to face Makhachev and a victory would restore their winning momentum. Fans can anticipate Makhachev’s next title defense at UFC 294 in October when the promotion returns to Abu Dhabi.
Looking ahead, Makhachev exudes confidence in his ability to overcome both Poirier and Gaethje. While acknowledging their skills, he firmly believes in his superiority. Makhachev asserted, “I can defeat them. I can face off against Poirier or Gaethje, but I want no association with that BMF nonsense, my friend. Just the fight, without the belt, please.” He predicts Dustin Poirier to emerge victorious in the Poirier vs. Gaethje rematch, highlighting Poirier’s superior boxing skills. According to Makhachev, the fight would primarily revolve around boxing, with Poirier operating on a higher level compared to Gaethje.
In conclusion, Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, prioritizes traditional championships and distances himself from the BMF title. Despite acknowledging the abilities of Poirier and Gaethje, Makhachev firmly believes in his own capacity to conquer them. However, he emphasizes his disinterest in the BMF belt and hopes to face his challengers without its involvement. Fans eagerly anticipate Makhachev’s next title defense and the potential matchups that lie ahead in the dynamic world of mixed martial arts.
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