Undisputed lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev has been linked with a slew of potential title defenses against the likes of Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, as well as former opponents, Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan in his Octagon return, however, claims as long as he competes at 155 pounds – none of them will touch the title belt.
Makhachev, the current undisputed lightweight champion, and also the newly-minted pound-for-pound number one fighter under the banner of the promotion since last month, headlined UFC 294 back in October most recently.
Turning in his second consecutive title defense, Makhachev landed a stunning opening round high-kick knockout win over two-time foe and featherweight kingpin, Alexander Volkanovski in the pair’s championship rematch in Abu Dhabi, UAE.