Islam Makhachev recently called out Leon Edwards for a welterweight title fight after Edwards’ victory over Colby Covington at UFC 296. The pay-per-view event was highly anticipated due to Covington’s controversial trash-talk, but it did not live up to the expectations of fans. Makhachev was unimpressed with both fighters’ performance, stating he would finish them if he faced them in the ring.
Despite Makhachev’s desire to win a UFC title in a second weight division, his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, has urged the Dagestani to face someone in the lightweight division instead. Abdelaziz specifically called for Makhachev to face Justin Gaethje, the BMF title holder. He warned Gaethje about the potential consequences of facing Makhachev in a tweet.
Islam Makhachev previously shared his ambition to compete in three bouts in 2024 before the beginning of Ramadan in March. However, with the first three pay-per-view events of the year already scheduled, it appears unlikely Makhachev’s wish will be granted.
Following Makhachev’s callout of Leon Edwards, there has been increased discussion about which champions should be eligible for the opportunity to win a title in another division. Since Conor McGregor’s second UFC title win, there has been a significant increase in the number of champions granted title fights in different weight divisions.
However, some argue that a champion should clean out their respective division before seeking another title. Michael Bisping, for instance, shared his thoughts on Makhachev’s plan of moving to welterweight and challenging Edwards. Bisping said Makhachev should defend his lightweight title first, offering contenders like Justin Gaethje or Charles Oliveira the chance to face him.
