Islam Makhachev likes the idea of a fresh big-name title tilt.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Lightweight kingpin, Makhachev, is on the cusp of making history in his next title defense. Should Makhachev score the victory against whoever challenges him, it will be a record fourth straight in the division. According to UFC CEO, Dana White, the likely match up will be a rematch between Makhachev and No. 1-ranked contender, Arman Tsarukyan.
Makhachev tied the record of three lightweight defenses with his fifth round d’arce choke (watch highlights) over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 this past weekend (June 1, 2024). UFC 303 will close out the month for the promotion and features the return of former champion, Conor McGregor, against Michael Chandler at Welterweight. If Makhachev could pick between McGregor or Tsarukyan, he admittedly prefers the “Notorious” Irishman. However, Makhachev doesn’t expect the return to come to fruition.
“To be honest, the McGregor fight looks more interesting in terms of media [attention] and in all respects,” Makhachev told Ushatayka (h/t Red Corner MMA). “But I don’t think he’ll even show up for his next fight. We’ve all seen that video plus they canceled the press conference [in Dublin]. I don’t think he’ll be able to make it to the fight.
“Even if he does, I think Chandler will win,” he concluded. “He’s more focused, he’s been training hard, he looks more hungry.”
McGregor vs. Chandler is still scheduled to occur after the changes this week. When each return, it will be their first appearance inside the Octagon in over one full year. For McGregor, his last time out came against Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. Chandler, on the other hand, also last fought Poirier when he lost via a third round rear-naked choke (watch highlights) at UFC 281 in November 2022.