Islam Makhachev has a main option when it comes to his next title fight after this weekend’s UFC 302. However, he is willing to meet the UFC if they wish otherwise.
Islam Makhachev would prefer to fight for the welterweight belt next
Russian Islam Makhachev once again showed off his high-class techniques in the main event at UFC 302. The lightweight champion clashed with Dustin Poirier at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey this Saturday. It was a high-quality effort from Poirier as well, who gave the champion a tough match. In the end, it wasn’t enough. This when Makhachev made Poirier tap out during a D’Arce Choke in the last round of the match.
When it comes to the next title fight, Makhachev already has an idea of what he wants to do next.
Speaking to reporters at the post-fight press conference, Makhachev discussed his intentions regarding the next step in his UFC career. He then admitted that he would prefer to face the welterweight champion to, among others, BJPenn.com:
Who doesn’t want to be double champion? This is history. How many double champions do we have? This is a dream for all fighters, to get a second belt.
This is my dream. I want to be in history and people know me like double champion. This is my dream. If I have a chance, a small chance, I will get. If you want a great legacy, you have to get second belt. It’s my opinion.
Makhachev was not shy about pointing out that he is not immediately interested in a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan. However, he would sign for the fight if the UFC wanted it:
It does not make sense when you have a rematch. I need some new challenges. But if Dana wants, let’s do it. No problem.
Makhachev scored a unanimous decision victory over Tsarukyan when the men met in 2019. Since then, the latter has won nine out of ten matches.
The welterweight belt is currently held by Britain’s Leon Edwards.
