Fans have witnessed the risks of giving lower-ranked fighters title shots. From Khalil Rountree being dominated to Kai Asakura struggling against Alexandre Pantoja, the disparity has been evident. A similar scenario unfolded when Islam Makhachev faced Renato Moicano, the 10th-ranked lightweight, exposing a significant skill gap. After the fight, Michael Chandler stepped in with a suggestion he believed would be the ideal matchup for the reigning lightweight champion. And it’s none other than Charles Oliveira.
Michael Chandler shared on X that Charles Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev should be the next fight. He praised both fighters as true professionals and suggested they make for an ideal matchup. Chandler highlighted their strong grappling skills and devastating knockout power, emphasizing how either could end the fight with a single punch.
Charles vs Islam has to be next. Professionals.
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) January 19, 2025
For those unaware, Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira have already faced off, with Makhachev taking the title from Oliveira. They were booked for a rematch in 2023, but Oliveira pulled out at the last minute due to an injury. Since then, the UFC community has eagerly awaited the chance to see if Oliveira can exact his revenge and reclaim the lightweight throne.
Fans have already seen the gap between top-tier fighters and lower-ranked opponents, making this clash between two of the division’s best an exciting and logical choice for the UFC.
Ilia Topuria Challenges Islam Makhachev After UFC 311 Win
Another highly hyped matchup is the potential champ vs. champ clash between featherweight king Ilia Topuria and lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Following UFC 311, Topuria has consistently hinted at a showdown with Makhachev. Recently, the Spaniard turned up the heat by calling out Islam on X, boldly claiming he could finish and knock him out easily. Topuria made it clear he’s ready for the challenge, setting the stage for an exciting face-off.
In his words, “Islam, if I want to, I can finish you. If I want to, I can knock you out. I’ll make it look easy. See you soon.”
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Indeed, it will be interesting to see who Islam faces next. He has two solid lightweight matchups in front of him, but he could also choose to move up in weight and go for a second belt in another division. Either option would make for an exciting chapter in his career, as he continues to prove himself as one of the UFC’s top fighters.
Also Read: Islam Makhachev Gets A Chilling Message From Ilia Topuria Following UFC 311 Victory
