Islam Makhachev, the reigning undisputed lightweight champion, has recently stirred the pot with some bold statements about his fellow fighters. Makhachev, who is also ranked as the top pound-for-pound fighter, has taken aim at several notable names in the lightweight division, including Dustin Poirier, Tony Ferguson, and Paddy Pimblett. His remarks have sparked significant conversation within the MMA community.
Since securing his title, Makhachev has been out of action due to an arm injury. He last fought at UFC 302, where he successfully defended his belt against Poirier with a fifth-round D’Arce choke submission in Newark. Makhachev was expected to headline UFC 308 in late October, but his injury has forced him to withdraw from a much-anticipated rematch with the top contender, Arman Tsarukyan.
Instead of fighting, Makhachev will watch UFC 308 from the sidelines as Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway square off in a featherweight title bout. The event will also feature a significant BMF title fight, leaving Makhachev to reflect on his division and its grappling credentials.
Islam Makhachev Mocks Tony Ferguson’s BJJ Black Belt Status
In a recent interview with Hosheh MMA, Makhachev voiced his doubts about the legitimacy of some fighters’ black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Specifically, he questioned the credentials of Tony Ferguson and Paddy Pimblett.
“No, Tony Ferguson doesn’t have a black belt,” Makhachev stated. “He’s done a few things on the ground with many fighters, but he’s not a real black belt. I work with real black belts, and it’s so tough. For some fighters, they get a gift. Some don’t deserve it.”
Ferguson’s recent performances have been under scrutiny. In his latest fight at UFC Abu Dhabi, he suffered his eighth consecutive loss, this time against Michael Chiesa via a first-round rear-naked choke. This result only adds fuel to the debate surrounding Ferguson’s grappling credentials.
The Champ Has Praise for Paddy Pimblett
Makhachev’s comments extend beyond Ferguson. He also had words for Paddy Pimblett, another fighter with notable promotional hype. Makhachev’s critique reflects his broader concerns about the standards within the division and the perceived ease with which some fighters obtain their black belts.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Makhachev has also been linked with a potential move up to middleweight. There has been speculation about him pursuing a second title in a higher weight class, with his coach expressing confidence in Makhachev’s ability to compete at 185 pounds.
While Makhachev’s injury has kept him out of action, his comments have kept him in the spotlight. His criticisms of other fighters highlight his high standards and the rigorous training he endures. As he recovers and plans his next move, the MMA world will be watching closely to see how his future fights and potential weight class change unfold.
The debate over black belt legitimacy and fighter credentials continues to be a hot topic. Makhachev’s outspoken nature has undoubtedly added to the conversation, keeping fans and analysts engaged in discussions about the integrity of the sport’s grappling elite.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images and Embed from Getty Images
