Islam Makhachev open to "crazy fight" against ex-UFC champ if Arman Tsarukyan rematch falls through: "I need new name, new challenger"
UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will likely face the challenge of Arman Tsarukyan in his next bid to defend the 155-pound throne. While there are no confirmations on the finalization of the contest, the Dagestani phenom has identified a new challenge that excites him.
Makhachev recently revealed that he tore a hand ligament following his fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. The 32-year-old will be absent from the mix for a while until he recovers from the injury. As talks of a rematch against Tsarukyan gain momentum, Makhachev, on the other hand, has teased a potential fight with former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway.
Speaking about the matchup during a Q&A session with fans ahead of UFC Abu Dhabi, Makhachev said:
"Why not? I already beat Arman. If UFC puts him next, that’s no problem. But, I’m not excited [that] much. I need new name, new challenger, I already beat Arman. If Max wants, let’s do it. I don’t need his [BMF] belt, but Max is a good name. It’s going to be a crazy fight for the fans.”
Catch Makhachev's comments below (7:00):
Makhachev and Tsarukyan locked horns in April 2019 at UFC Fight Night 149. Tsarukyan's skills were put to the test on his promotional debut against an accomplished grappler like Makhachev. While the 27-year-old stood his ground and maintained composure, his opponent's experience proved to be the deciding factor.
The judges scored the contest unanimously in Makhachev's favor. Since that fight, Tsarukyan has established himself as a formidable threat in the division with a 9-1 record after the Makhachev loss.
Islam Makhachev claims Belal Muhammad ruined his plans to become a two-division champion
Islam Makhachev has consistently outlined his ambition to become a two-division UFC champion. However, Belal Muhammad's recent title victory at UFC 304 may have thrown a spanner in the Dagestani's plans.
Over the years, Muhammad has forged a bond with Makhachev and his team grounded in mutual respect. The reigning UFC welterweight champion frequently trains with the Dagestani team and Khabib Nurmagomedov was in his corner during his fight against Sean Brady at UFC 280.
Speaking about Muhammad's unanimous decision win over Leon Edwards to capture the throne at UFC 304, Makhachev said:
"Belal didn’t give him any chance. Smash him everywhere. He makes us nervous a little bit with a couple of positions, but now Belal is the champion. This guy broke my plans to be a double champion. But I am really happy for him and happy for his country. He deserves it."
Catch Makhachev's comments below: