Current UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has made an announcement that might be music to the ears of his fans. According to the Dagestani, 2024 is going to be the year he plans to be more active than one might anticipate.
Last seen in action back in October, Makhachev is coming off a dominant win over featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. A special talent in his own right, Volkanovski is no cakewalk. But the Sambo Master made it look easy, finishing ‘The Great’ in the very first round of what could have been a five-round war. So, what does the champ plan to do next?
What’s Next For Islam Makhachev
In his recent tweet, Islam Makhachev has given the MMA community a glimpse of his 2024 wish list. As per his words, the grappling genius wants to enter the octagon thrice this year. And it looks like the Dagestani has the possible venues and opponents sorted out for his ambitious plans. In his own words: “June 8 UFC PPV vs Gaethje. November UFC MSG vs Oliveira/Arman, February 2025 vs Anybody Inshallah.”
This is quite surprising, as the list also includes Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan, the two matchups Makhachev previously seemed to be dismissive of. According to him, he has already defeated both of his fellow lightweights and is not interested in giving them a rematch. “To be honest, I’ve already told [UFC] I’m not interested in rematches,” said Makhachev. “Because if you want to [be a champion] in a good way, you have to add new names,” he continued.
A close friend of the former champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev captured the UFC’s lightweight gold after beating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. Since then, the fighter has defended his belt twice, both times against Alexander Volkanovski last year. These wins have also helped him further his win streak, which currently stands at 13 wins. And with this tweet, it’s clear that the AKA member wants to further cement his legacy.
Will Dana White and the company echo this ambition? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
