The UFC lightweight division has long been ruled by the Dagestani champion, Islam Makhachev. However, despite several fighters trying to dethrone the champion, Makhachev has remained as the undisputed king. Thus, when Arman Tsarukyan challenged the champion, things seemed to be getting interesting. Unfortunately, a back pain flared up and the Armenian had to make way for Renato Moicano. While the hype was strong, Moicano too, failed to dismantle the title reign of Islam Makhachev.
However, according to UFC lightweight prospect, Beneil Dariush, there is one person who can truly beat Makhachev. And that is none other than Max Holloway. Detailing his narrative, Dariush also stated three solid reasons to back his claims.
“You know who’d be interesting? Max Holloway. I think Max Holloway could be an interesting fight for Makhachev. So we’ll see… Because he’s hard to hold, he has excellent cardio, and he throws a lot of volume, and I think these are things that could be difficult for Makhachev,” Dariush stated in an interaction with ‘SiriusXM’.
Which fighter has the best chance to dethrone Islam Makhachev?@beneildariush explains why @BlessedMMA presents the most interesting style matchup for the champ
— MMA on SiriusXM (@MMAonSiriusXM) January 24, 2025
Source: MMA Today w/@RJcliffordMMA & @RyanMcKinnell pic.twitter.com/inEC9YhKhU
The BMF champion has been in electric form recently. Afterall, who can forget his thumping knockout of Justin Gaethje back in UFC 300. Although he lost to Ilia Topuria, Dariush feels Holloway is just the perfect fighter. Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev has been called out by a former foe.
Islam Makhachev Called Out By Charles Oliveira
After getting over Moicano easily, Islam Makhachev will now be looking to extend his title run. And while a host of fighters will fancy a chance against the lightweight champion, Makhachev recently had a familiar foe call him out.
Soon after his win, Charles Oliveira expressed his wish for a title shot. “It was a great fight… but I’m next and he knows that. The lightweight champion is called Charles Oliveira,” said Oliveira.
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Charles Oliveira says he’s next in line for the lightweight title 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 19, 2025
“It was a great fight… but I’m next and he knows that. The lightweight champion is called Charles Oliveira.”
🎥 @ufc #UFC311 #UFC #MMA
pic.twitter.com/L1vskdNHmB
Surely, this might be a possibility as Dana White stated that Arman Tsarukyan will not be getting an immediate title shot. Thus, with opportunities galore, it will be interesting to see what happens next.
Also Read: Renato Moicano Says Islam Makhachev Fight Showed Him His True Popularity
