After a hard-fought victory against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, Islam Makhachev is in a strong position, having tied the record for most title defenses at lightweight. Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up to challenge for the welterweight title, but several intriguing matchups remain in the lightweight division. Here are three potential opponents for Makhachev:
1. Arman Tsarukyan
Overview:
Arman Tsarukyan is the current number-one contender at lightweight, having recently defeated Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. Tsarukyan and Makhachev have fought before, with their first encounter being one of Makhachev’s toughest fights in the UFC. Tsarukyan’s performance in that fight has only improved his reputation, making a rematch highly anticipated.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
Promised Title Shot: Dana White promised a title shot for the winner of Oliveira vs. Tsarukyan.
Recent Form: Tsarukyan is on a four-fight winning streak, with significant victories over Oliveira and Beneil Dariush.
Intriguing Rematch: Their first fight was competitive, and a rematch would generate significant interest.
Potential Timing and Location:
UFC 308 in UAE: This event would be a fitting stage for this rematch, given Makhachev’s and Tsarukyan’s connections to the region.
2. Leon Edwards
Overview:
Leon Edwards is set to defend his welterweight title against Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 in Manchester. If Edwards successfully defends his title, he could be a potential opponent for Makhachev, who has expressed a desire to challenge for the welterweight belt.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
Quest for Double Champ Status: Makhachev has stated his interest in winning a second belt.
Previous Training History: Edwards and Makhachev have trained together, adding an interesting narrative to the fight.
UFC’s Big Event Potential: A fight between Makhachev and Edwards could headline a major card, such as UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden.
Potential Timing and Location:
UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden: If the UFC opts for a high-profile event, this could be the co-main event to Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic.
3. Ilia Topuria
Overview:
Ilia Topuria recently became the featherweight champion by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298. Topuria has expressed interest in fighting Makhachev and has engaged in a brief social media feud with him.
Why This Fight Makes Sense:
Champion vs. Champion: Topuria moving up to lightweight to challenge Makhachev could create a compelling champion vs. champion storyline.
Featherweight Superfight: Topuria’s rising star power and recent victory over Volkanovski add to the intrigue.
International Appeal: Hosting this fight in Spain or another international location could attract a global audience.
Potential Timing and Location:
UFC 307 (Location TBA): If Topuria’s fight with Max Holloway does not materialize, a bout with Makhachev could be scheduled for this event.
Islam Makhachev’s next fight could see him defending his lightweight title against top contender Arman Tsarukyan, moving up to welterweight to challenge Leon Edwards, or potentially facing featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. Each option presents its own set of challenges and narratives, promising exciting matchups for UFC fans.
