Islam Makhachev Claims to Be the Pound-For-Pound #1 in the World Hints Showdown With Belal Muhammad
Islam Makhachev claims to be the pound-for-pound #1 in the world. And he is eager to validate his claim eyeing a potential showdown with UFC welterweight Belal Muhammad. Muhammad, who also trains under coach Khabib Nurmagomedov, is a training partner of Makhachev and is considered a friend. With that being said Makhachev is quick to remind us “We will talk.” anything can change quick. Before Makhachev can claim pound-for-pound greatness he has an enormous rematch to get through. With none other than the man who was part of one of his most talked about fights to date Arman Tsarukayn.
“It’s Not My Job it’s My Goal,”
It’s not my job it’s my goal,” Makhachev has said “I’m not going to leave this sport without a second belt. To achieve this Makhachev has to safeguard his lightweight championship. Saturday, January 18th, a rematch against fellow lightweight phenom Arman Tsarukyan. Makhachev and Tsarukyan have fought before in a war that was deemed Fight Of the Night. This time the two collide they will be the headliners for the star-studded UFC 311. If Makhachev can defend his title Saturday night he may be able to start his quest for a second belt, and the right to be called the pound-for-pound #1 in the world.
What would it mean for Makhachev to become a double champion? For starters, he would have achieved an accolade that not even his coach the great Khabib Nurmagomedov could achieve in his run of 29-0. To add even more fuel to the fire there are only nine UFC fighters to ever become a double champ. Great names such as Amanda Nunes, George St-Pierre, and Dana White’s pick for pound-for-pound #1 while he is active. Crowing himself a double champ would not only solidify Makhachev among the elite as well as send a clear message to Dana White.
Makhachev’s Message to Dana White
On social media platforms all over MMA, friends are debating the subject. Who is the pound-for-pound #1 in the world? Well if you ever hear Dana White’s take on the subject the answer is Jon Jones. Makhachev disagrees he claims he is the pound-for-pound #1 in the world and the people know this. Defending his title this weekend would be the start, Moving up to defeat Muhammad and become double champ. That’s the goal will it happen only time will tell.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
