The Russian mixed martial artist Umar Nurmagomedov weighed in on social media about who might challenge UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. He expressed support for a potential showdown with American-Iranian contender Beneil Dariush, suggesting Dariush could be a worthy next opponent for Makhachev at the top of the division.
Renowned manager Ali Abdelaziz backed that idea, echoing the sentiment that such a fight would be a significant test for the champion and adding that few others may be as compelling a challenge for Makhachev in the near future.
On February 12, Islam Makhachev defended his title by defeating Alexander Volkanovski via unanimous decision after five rounds at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia. The victory marked Makhachev’s successful second tenure as the lightweight champion and added another eloquent chapter to his career inside the Octagon.
Earlier in the year, Makhachev had already proven his championship mettle against Charles Oliveira. At UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi, Oliveira and Makhachev fought for the lightweight belt, and Makhachev cut through Oliveira with a decisive submission in the second round, signaling his readiness to defend the crown against elite competition.
A controversial remark from American sports journalist Ariel Helwani drew attention, as he claimed that Islam Makhachev is not on the same level as Khabib Nurmagomedov, who previously defined a generation of fighters from Dagestan. The comment sparked discussion among fans and pundits about the evolving standards of the lightweight division and the comparative impact of two generations of Nurmagomedov-backed fighters. [Citation: Sports journalism analysis collection]