Some fresh Islam Makhachev next fight news should arrive soon. Until then, we offer up three opponent options for his return to the Octagon and look back on his big win over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302.
Related: UFC tonight – Fight card, betting odds, and watch times for Saturday’s UFC event
Who will Islam Makhachev next fight be against?
After eight months away from the sport, Islam Makhachev returned to action at UFC 302 and was forced into a war by former interim champ Dustin Poirier. However, the pound-for-pound star persevered and was able to score a fight-ending submission in the fifth and final round.
With another 155-pound title defense in the books, Makhachev is most likely to face either Arman Tsarukyan, Max Holloway, or the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad in his next fight.
- Ahalkalakets: Tsarukyan has earned a lightweight title fight and a rematch between the two men that had a hard-fought first encounter five years ago would be an intriguing matchup. Especially since both are far better than they were in 20219.
- Blessed: After defeating Justin Gaethje for the BMF title, Holloway’s stock is as high as ever. On a purely interest level, the BMF champ versus the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world may be too unique of an opportunity to pass up on for the promotion and fighters.
- The welterweight champ: After his UFC 302 win Islam Makhachev claimed his next big goal is to have a second belt. The Russian may sit on the sidelines and wait for the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 and set up a battle of champions fight in the Fall.
Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier recap
While Dustin Poirier did many good things in his title bout against Makhachev, in the end, he lost every round before suffering another submission loss in what is sure to be his last title opportunity.
What happened: Early on the champ was able to use his wrestling to ground his opponent. However, Poirier’s takedown defense proved better than expected and he often forced Makhachev to compete on his feet where the American had an advantage. However, Makhachev showed how well-rounded he is and was able to outpoint Poirier on the feet before getting him down and submitting him in the fifth round.
The fallout: Makhachev once again showed why he is the best fighter in the world and can win fights in different ways. In defeat, Poirier added another layer of toughness and wonder to his legacy as he was very competitive in a fight he broke his nose and tore a knee ligament early in.
What’s next? Makhachev is like to face either Tsarukyan or the welterweight champion in his next bout inside the Octagon.
Also Read: How UFC scoring works – Everything you need to know about how to win inside the Octagon
What makes Islam Makhachev so popular?
Islam Makhachev was the heir apparent to UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov when it comes to top MMA stars from Dagestan, Russia. However, during his run in the company he has built the type of resume where a debate could be made that he has surpassed the success of his legendary friend.
Not only is Islam Makhachev one of the very best fighters at 155 pounds, but he is among the five best pound-for-pound competitors in the world.
Related: UFC welterweight rankings – Ranking the top 10 170-pound fighters in the world
- What is Islam Makhachev’s record in the UFC?: 26-1 (5 KO, 12 submissions)
- Islam Makhachev height: 5-foot-10
- Islam Makhachev weight: The Russian competes in the UFC’s lightweight division, which has a max weight of 156 pounds in non-title fights.
- Islam Makhachev loss: His lone defeat was by technical knockout to Adriano Martins at UFC 192 in 2015.
- Along with having won UFC gold, Makhachev also won a Russian Sambo national championship before competing in MMA.
Islam Makhachev net worth
The measure of a fighter’s success is the dollars and cents they stack up from a career in combat sports. Due to landing some big sponsorships in recent years, Islam Makhavhev’s net worth is believed to be around $1 million.