Since delivering the vicious head kick knockout to Alexander Volkanovski final day trip, Islam Makhachev has solidified himself because the #1 pound-for-pound fighter on the planet.
There are a number of opponents accessible to the light-weight king, whether or not that be in his weight class or elsewhere. Alongside his doable subsequent matchups, the Russian has now opened up on when he desires to be booked to struggle.
Revealing an excellent timeline for his return, Islam Makhachev took to social media to announce to the world when to count on him again within the cage. Sadly, if he would not get his most popular date, followers must wait till after Ramadan to observe him compete once more.
I’ll be able to smash somebody in March, or see you after Ramadan 👊🏼🖐🏼 pic.twitter.com/gNGUygrUSj
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) December 28, 2023
Makhachev has been assessing his choices with each Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira insisting they need to get the subsequent shot at his light-weight throne.
The Dagestani understandably believes in his skill to maintain the title for so long as he desires. He made that clear after calling out the highest 5 in his division throughout a submit on social media.
“Arman [Tsarukyan], Dustin [Poirier], Justin [Gaethje], Charles [Oliveira] they’re all good, they’re TOP 5 on the planet, however none of them will get the belt whereas I am right here. That is it.”
Arman, Dustin, Justin, Charles all of them good, they’re TOP 5 on the planet, however none of them will get the belt, whereas I’m right here. That’s it! @ufc @espnmma
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) December 6, 2023
Associated: Justin Gaethje: ‘My subsequent struggle is Islam Makhachev’
Islam Makhachev vs. Justin Gaethje subsequent?
Successful three of his final 4 with an enormous knockout towards Dustin Poirier coming in his most up-to-date bout, Justin Gaethje staked his declare at Makhachev’s title.
‘The Spotlight’ made his case to be subsequent in line forward of Charles Oliveira. Whereas ‘Do Bronx’ is a viable contender, the previous interim light-weight champion believes a contemporary matchup between him and Islam Makhachev ought to be opted for over a rematch with the Brazilian.
His feedback did not sit too nicely with the 155 king who insisted he ought to be cautious about what he needs for.
I can do greater than kicking, watch out 😉😴💤 https://t.co/yyCSbd7mVm
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) December 27, 2023
Having not competed since July, Justin Gaethje would have sufficient time to arrange for a light-weight title struggle ought to the UFC give Islam Makhachev his most popular March conflict.
If not, the division must be held up till Ramadan is completed, which might probably see the titleholder return to fight from April 9 onwards.
