On the UFC fighting scene, ·Islam Makhachev is undoubtedly a shining star. As the current UFC lightweight champion, his every appearance is in the limelight.
In a fierce showdown at UFC 302, Makhachev used his tenacious fighting spirit and superior skill to ·submit Dustin Poirier in the fifth round despite tearing a ligament in his hand, successfully completing his third defense against the lightweight title. That 14th consecutive victory puts him firmly at No. 1 in the MMA Fighting Rankings, demonstrating his unrivaled prowess.
However, for many Makhachev fans, the biggest suspense at the moment is when his next bout will come. During a fan Q&A before the UFC Abu Dhaza fight on Saturday, Makhachev appeared wearing a cast on his right hand, saying that the hand injury was not serious and was part of the sport. The next 10 days are crucial and everything will depend on the doctor's decision.
Despite the unspecified injury, Makhachev has no shortage of challengers when he returns to the Circle. Arman Tsarukyan, Oman·who is gaining momentum, is one of them. With nine of his 11 UFC fights to his name, Charukyan is a force to be reckoned with. However, Makhachev has little interest in a rematch with Tsaraukyan as he believes he has already beaten him and is eager for a new challenge.
And when it comes to "BMF" champion ·Max Holloway, Makhachev shows a certain expectation. He thinks the fight against Holloway will be a fan-crazy matchup, even though he doesn't need the "BMF" belt.
In addition to competing in the lightweight division, Makhachev has also considered becoming a two-division threat. He had discussed moving up to welterweight to challenge Leon · Leon Edwards, but with Edwards losing his title at UFC 304, the significance of the matchup has been greatly diminished. And, as he is friends with Belal Muhammad, Makhachev temporarily lost interest in the welterweight belt.
As for a possible move to middleweight, Makhachev is realistic. He knew it was going to be a tough challenge and he would need to gain weight to face bigger opponents. But he also said that after completing the lightweight mission, he will develop a relevant plan.
Makhachev's path to the title is full of unknowns and challenges, but his tenacity and love of martial arts give us reason to believe that no matter what the road ahead may be, he will continue to forge ahead and bring us more exciting fights. Let's all hope that he will return from injury and shine again in the Octagon.