The UFC lightweight division has been abuzz with anticipation as Islam Makhachev prepares to defend his title against former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 294 on October 21. However, Makhachev’s dreams extend beyond his upcoming fight, as he harbors aspirations of challenging for the welterweight strap. With current champ Leon Edwards set to face Colby Covington at UFC 296 in December, Makhachev envisions a potential champion vs. champion showdown that could solidify his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Makhachev, currently ranked as the No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter by ESPN, has made his ambitions clear. In an interview with ESPN, Makhachev expressed his desire to face the winner of the Edwards vs. Covington bout. He drew attention to the fact that the UFC afforded featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski the opportunity to challenge him in February, resulting in Makhachev’s victory via decision. Now, Makhachev believes it’s only fair for him to be granted the same opportunity to prove himself in another weight class.
“I don’t know what the UFC has planned, but my dream fight is for the second belt,” Makhachev told ESPN. “Of course, I am under contract, so whatever the UFC says, I will fight, no problem. But Edwards vs. Colby — I really believe I can beat [the winner]. I look at their skills and what they have as champions, and I know my skills. It’s going to be a good fight. I’m not saying I’m going to beat them easily. It’s going to be a hard, tough fight against a big guy. But I believe I can finish those guys.”
As Makhachev eagerly awaits the outcome of Edwards vs. Covington, he hopes that Covington emerges victorious. The reason behind his preference lies in the fact that Edwards, unlike Covington, has seemingly ignored Makhachev’s interest in a potential matchup. Makhachev wants a fight with someone who actively seeks the challenge.
“I hope [Covington] wins because I don’t know what Leon says about fighting me,” Makhachev admitted. “I’ve never heard Leon say he wants this fight. But Colby wants it. That’s why I want Colby to win, and we can meet one day. It would be a very good fight. He has good wrestling. It’s going to be U.S. wrestling vs. Dagestan wrestling. He’s a good fighter. He has good wrestling and good conditioning, but in my opinion, I can stop his wrestling and land many good punches.”
While Makhachev’s eyes are fixed on the future, he remains fully committed to his imminent challenge against Charles Oliveira. Reflecting on their first encounter one year ago at UFC 280, Makhachev exudes confidence after submitting the Brazilian fighter. Oliveira, who earned a title rematch by knocking out Beneil Dariush in June, has openly admitted to having an off night during their initial matchup. Makhachev believes there is a reason why Oliveira refuses to watch the replay of that loss.
“That fight reminds him of the time he gave up,” Makhachev claimed. “When he watches this fight, he remembers everything that happened there. He tried to push me and land some punches, but when he doesn’t have insurance, he just gives up. … This fight is interesting for the people. Everybody wants to see this match again.”
The Making of a Champion
As Islam Makhachev continues to assert his dominance in the lightweight division, fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting his next move. His desire to challenge for a second belt is a testament to his unwavering self-belief and hunger for greatness. With the possibility of a champion vs. champion clash looming on the horizon, Makhachev’s journey to etch his name in the annals of UFC history is only just beginning. Will he rise to the occasion and cement his place among the all-time greats? Only time will tell.
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