Ali Abdel-Aziz, the long-time manager behind Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, has laid out clear thoughts on who should step into the cage next. His stance centers on a defense against Dariush Dariush, signaling a desire to keep the belt in a test that should push Makhachev to showcase even more adaptability and grit. The message emphasizes the strategic scheduling that aligns with Makhachev’s ongoing ascent and the shifting landscape of the lightweight division as it stands today in North America and beyond.
“A rematch with Volkanovski will not move the needle for Makhachev,” Abdel-Aziz explained. “He already defeated him once, and another win over the same opponent wouldn’t add significant value to his legacy. I wanted to see the rematch unfold, but after the exchanges that came from your team, everything changed for us. The dynamic behind the scenes matters as much as the clash inside the octagon.”
He continued, outlining a path that keeps the title on the line against Beneil Dariush, with a careful eye toward what comes next in Makhachev’s career arc. “Islam can defend the belt against Dariush, and if he keeps winning, a future move to middleweight might become a possibility,” Abdel-Aziz noted. “For now, Dariush sits ahead in the division rankings, and this is among the most demanding challenges in Islam’s professional journey.” The emphasis was on a fight that would test Makhachev’s versatility, fight IQ, and stamina against a veteran grappler who has long been considered among the sport’s most dangerous threats.
Meanwhile, Dariush Dariush is slated to face Charles Oliveira this May, a matchup that has been generating considerable buzz among fans and analysts alike. The pairing promises a mix of ground game mastery and striking potency, with Oliveira’s submission savvy and Dariush’s relentless pace creating a clash of styles that could redefine the weight class’s near-term dynamics. The anticipation surrounding this bout reflects the broader shift in the lightweight division as rivalries tighten and championship aspirations rise.
On February 12, Makhachev moved decisively at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia, earning a unanimous decision after five rounds in a contest that continued his impressive run and reinforced his standing as a dominant force within the division. The victory underscored the stability of his technical approach, the discipline of his conditioning, and the constant pressure he applies to opponents at the highest level. It marked another significant milestone in a career characterized by steady wins, precise execution, and a commitment to evolving his game in the pursuit of consistency and greatness.
Echoing the interest of top-level competitors, former rivals and frequent observers have floated potential matchups that would genuinely test Makhachev’s skills. Justin Gaethje, a name synonymous with bold exchanges and high-profile clashes, has publicly expressed interest in facing Makhachev, underscoring the ongoing fascination with how these two fighters would match up under the brightest lights. The dialogue around such a showdown illustrates the broader narrative of a champion who remains at the center of heated debates about who truly belongs at the pinnacle and how the sport’s best opponents continue to push him to refine every aspect of his game.