Islam Makhachev may be UFC lightweight champion, but it’s former 155-pound titleholder, Khabib Nurmagomedov, who’s calling the shots.
That’s probably why the promotion has yet to book Makhachev against former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, who vacated the 145-pound title for a shot at lightweight glory.
Why “La Leyenda” took the plunge without a signed contract from Makhachev remains a mystery.
“I don’t know what kind of agreements Topuria and UFC had, but from Islam’s side, he already gave two title shots to 145-pound champions,” Nurmagomedov told Adam Zubayraev. “Both times Islam won. Now a third time? Okay, let’s imagine Topuria moves up and gets a title shot right away. Islam beats him. Then Topuria fights again. He loses again. So basically he was a nobody at 155. Islam beat a nobody at 155. Because of that, in terms of legacy, for Islam, for his resume, I understand Islam’s risks.”
Makhachev may do some moving of his own, depending on how things shake out at UFC 315 next month in Montreal. If Jack Della Maddalena defeats current champion Belal Muhammad, don’t be surprised to see Makhachev campaign for a jump to 170 pounds.
“In my opinion, not necessarily [more] dangerous, let’s say more competitive, I think it’s Tsarukyan,” Nurmagomedov continued. “I think Arman is a more serious fighter than Topuria. Topuria is a good fighter at 145, but we haven’t seen him at 155. I believe Arman is more competitive for Islam.”
Makhachev and Tsarukyan were previously scheduled to collide at UFC 311; however, a last-minute back injury booted “Ahalkalakets” from the “Golden State” fight card, sending Tsarukyan to the back of the 155-pound line.
In the meantime, the show must go on…
