If Islam Makhachev wins his next fight, he’ll “absolutely” get an opportunity to add another belt to his collection.
In June, the ‘Dagestani Destroyer’ successfully defended his lightweight championship against three-time title challenger Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in New Jersey. Makhachev had hoped to put his gold on the line at Saturday’s pay-per-view event in Abu Dhabi, but a hand injury forced him to sit out the rest of 2024.
![Islam Makhachev](https://www.lowkickmma.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/gettyimages-2155669835-612x612-1.jpg)
When he does return, Makhachev is expected to square off with the division’s top-ranked contender, Arman Tsarukyan.