UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is already confirmed to be fighting at UFC 294 on the upcoming Abu Dhabi card in October. Islam’s next opponent however is in question, with multiple possibilities in play.
Charles Oliveira is coming off a massive first-round KO of Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 that threw his name right back into title contention.
Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje square off at UFC 291 for the BMF belt in their rematch with a potential title shot on the line.
Alexander Volkanovski gave Makhachev his toughest test to date, but he’s defending at UFC 290 against Yair Rodriguez in July and has not been mentioned as much as other names.
Islam Makhachev Shares Thoughts on Oliveira’s Win
Eagle FC 52 went down this Saturday in Dagestan with Khabib and Islam in attendance. YukaHero spoke to Makhachev following the event and got his thoughts on Oliveira’s win over Dariush.
“The fight was good, but I was rooting for Dariush. I thought it would be a new challenge for me. Dariush had 8 wins in a row. I can’t say if my next fight will be a rematch against Charles. We have to wait. Now Justin and Dustin will fight and then the UFC will decide.
Islam Prefers Poirier Matchup
When asked about who his preferred matchup was, Islam replied that he was seeking something new.
“I want a new name on my resume, it’ll be better for me.”
“Maybe Poirier. He has a big name in the UFC. Dariush lost, everything’s turned upside-down. I can’t say anything for now. If he had beat Oliveira, it would have been a good fight. Dariush’s skills were highly appreciated. It would have been a good fight.”
Islam Talks Potential Rematches With Oliveira and Volkanovski
With the expectation seemingly moving toward a rematch with Oliveira, Islam stood his ground.
“If Oliveira will not fight me now, everyone will say that I am avoiding him. I never choose my opponents. I will fight anyone UFC gives me.”
When asked if Oliveira could make a rematch more competitive than their first bout, Islam had this to say:
“I don’t think he can do anything I’m not afraid of his grappling like the rest of the fighters. I can take him down at any time. Volkanovski is the exact same. If they offer me a rematch with Volkanovski I will gladly accept it.”
Quotes via Middle Easy
Regardless of who Islam’s next fight is against, it’s sure to be must-see TV for all MMA fans.
Who do you think Makhachev should fight next? Let us know in the comments below.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
