Islam Makhachev, the UFC champion, isn’t thrilled about a possible fight with Max Holloway. What is the reason for Makhachev not showing excitement for this fight? Continue reading to find out!
With a historic last-second finish at UFC 300, Holloway eliminated “The Highlight” from the 155-pound title fight.
In the main event of UFC 302, which takes place on June 1 at Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey, Makhachev will defend his championship against Dustin Poirier. His attention is on Poirier, followed by Arman Tsarukyan, who defeated Charles Oliveira to solidify his position as the top contender.
Makhachev stated in an interview with the New York Post that if his potential opponent were to defeat a few more competitors in his division, they could potentially arrange a fight. He expressed reluctance to give the opponent a chance at the moment due to his focus on facing other contenders in his division, specifically mentioning Dustin and then Arman as upcoming challenges. Makhachev emphasized the need to fulfill his obligations within his division and suggested that if the opponent were to win their next fight, perhaps against Ilia Topuria, while he completed his two upcoming fights, then the possibility of a match could be considered.
Makhachev would confront Leon Edwards at welterweight if he had his way; the bout was scheduled for UFC 300. Makhachev said no since he would have had to spend Ramadan preparing for the battle.
Makhachev expressed in an interview that his dream fight would be in the next weight division, at 170 pounds, where he would like to face Leon Edwards. He explained that he felt he had already given opportunities to fighters in the 145-pound division and now sought a chance at a second belt. He noted that he didn’t find any particularly exciting fights in his current division, citing Dustin’s single-fight win streak and his previous victory over Arman. Makhachev shared his belief that he had fulfilled his duties in his division and therefore deserved the opportunity to contend for a second belt, especially since he had defeated older competitors in the past.
What are your thoughts on Makachevs feelings towards a possible fight with Holloway? Do you feel he has the right reasons to feel negatively for this fight? Do let us know about your thoughts in the comment section!
