After UFC 294, Islam Makhachev wants to do what Khabib Nurmagomedov couldn’t.
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will defend his title against a familiar opponent, Charles Oliveira, on October 21st at UFC 294. However, after this fight, Makhachev announced his intention to move to another weight class to win a belt in another weight class, something Khabib Nurmagomedov was unable to do. He also mentioned his most desired fight.
Islam Makhachev seeks to accomplish what Khabib Nurmagomedov couldn’t
Islam Makhachev expressed his desire to fight for the welterweight title after his next bout. His specific goal is to test Dagestani wrestling compared to American wrestling by facing Colby Covington.
“I don’t know what the UFC is planning, but my dream is to fight for a second belt. They have to give me a chance too. They gave a fighter in another weight class a chance to move up in weight and win the belt, but he lost. I want a chance too.” >(H/T:ESPN)
Makhachev accepts the challenge, but considers this fight to be the one he covets the most. He believes his next goal is to move to another weight class, something Nurmagomedov was unable to do.
Already holding the lightweight title, Makhachev aims to secure the welterweight title and become a two-division champion.
UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards will face Colby Covington at UFC 296 in December. This means Islam Makhachev will not be able to make his long-awaited fight against Colby this year and will have to wait even longer for his most anticipated fight. It remains unclear whether Islam can accomplish what Khabib could not by winning multiple titles. Time will tell.
UFC stories to read:
Nonetheless, the excitement continues as Makhachev prepares to defend his title against the famous Charles Oliveira at UFC 294. Don’t miss the action.
