Islam Makhachev next opponent: UFC 284: Islam Makhachev retained his lightweight title by beating Alexander Volkanovski via decision at the main event of UFC 284. It was a hard-earned victory for Islam, who is right now on a 12-fight win streak. Follow UFC News Updates with InsideSport.IN.
After earning the vacant UFC belt against Charles Oliveira at UFC 280, Makhachev’s first title defense came against the featherweight champion Volkanovski, who dared to move up to 155 lbs. While Makhachev handed the Aussie his first loss in the UFC, the Russian fighter will now return to facing natural lightweights again.
Here’s a look at five possible matchups for Islam Makhachev after beating Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284.
Islam Makhachev against the winner of Charles Oliveira vs Beneil Dariush
Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira will return against number 4th ranked contender Beneil Dariush on May 8 in the main event of UFC 288. Oliveira is currently the first-ranked lightweight contender in the UFC and could have demanded an immediate rematch against current champion Oliveira.
That said, the winner between Oliveira and Dariush shall become the mandatory UFC lightweight title challenger. Hence, Islam Makhachev should keep his eyes on both men.
Islam Makhachev cannot overlook Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler
The return of Conor McGregor will be massive, especially after his appearance as a coach at TUF 31 against Team Michael Chandler. Although McGregor hasn’t won a lightweight contest since 2016, he can come back to the title picture by beating Michael Chandler. Hence, McGregor or Chandler can also be the next Islam Makhachev. But it’s unsure whether ‘Notorious’ and ‘Iron’ will clash at 155 lbs as 170 lbs is also being seen as a possibility.
Will Islam Makhachev move to the welterweight spot?
Makhachev has teased his intentions of moving up to 170 lb at some point. His mentor Khabib Nurmaomedov was advised to do the same by several people. However, Khabib retired as a lightweight champion. If Islam Makhachev can grab the UFC welterweight belt, he can surpass Khabib Nurmagmedov’s legacy.
Islam Makhachev next possible MATCHUPS: Who can Islam Makhachev face after UFC 284 win against Alexander Volkanovski?
However, that might not be his immediate move. Islam Makhachev has claimed to improve his performance after consuming had punishment from Volkanovski. So, we can see more of him at 155 lbs unless the champion wants to have a taste of the welterweight category next.
Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier can be a great matchup
Dustin Poirier is one of the most prolific fighters to have never won a UFC world title. He has failed twice in lightweight title bouts against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira respectively. However, ‘Diamond is back to the number two spot after submitting Michael Chandler.
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If Beneil Dariush or Charles Oliveira misses out on their fight, Dustin Poirier can slide it. Hence, it validates ‘Diamond’ as a possible future opponent for Islam Makhachev.
Islam Makhachev vs Justin Gaethje – A striking menace
‘The Highlight’ Justin Gaethje sits at the third spot in the lightweight rankings and is arguably the most violent striker in all of the roster. He is still one or two wins far from earning a title shot. There are several more names who are ahead of him at this point.
Islam Makhachev next possible MATCHUPS: Who can Islam Makhachev face after UFC 284 win against Alexander Volkanovski ?
However, Justin Gaethje can never be ruled out of the mix. He is right at the top amongst the A-listed 155-pounders and can earn a crack at the current champion Islam Makhachev.
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