Islam Makhachev isn’t interested in revisiting his clash with Dustin Poirier or facing Michael Chandler as he eyes his next title defence.
The lightweight champion just put his title on the line for a record-equalling defence against Poirier at UFC 302, dominating over four rounds before submitting his rival in the fifth. He is now just one win away from breaking a promotional record for 155lb title defences, and just needs a dance partner.
However, with top contender Arman Tsarukyan facing a lengthy ban for allegedly punching out at a fan during his last ring walk, the UFC may not have a worthy contender. He has already comfortably beaten No.2 Charles Oliveira, while No.3 Justin Gaethje was just knocked out by Max Holloway for the BMF belt.
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Islam Makhachev turns down rematch with Dustin Poirier
Around 500,000 people were reported to have bought Islam Makhachev’s latest title defence against Dustin Poirier in Newark last month. Over five rounds, Poirier did an impressive job of defending the Dagestani’s takedowns but was ultimately undone and submitted.
A massive part of the fight’s build-up was that Poirier was planning to retire if he lost, although he is refusing to fully commit to such an agreement just yet. And he took to X, formerly Twitter, in recent days to make a play for a rematch.
Poirier has already fought for undisputed UFC gold three times and even won the interim belt, but has never managed to become the true champion. And he asked Makhachev “If Arman can’t fight let’s go again.”
However, the Russian didn’t entertain the notion and told him simply “No thanks,” before sharing another message not directly to Poirier that said “I need new [targets]”.
Islam Makhachev completely dismisses Michael Chandler as Conor McGregor fight hangs in the balance
A few moments later, Michael Chandler claimed that after being denied the opportunity to fight Conor McGregor last weekend due to his rival suffering an injury, he may be getting a world title opportunity this October.
The American had been due to fight McGregor since February of last year, but when the Irishman broke his toe the fight was cancelled. Chandler is still keen to wait on what is the biggest fight in MMA, but also claimed to be offered an opportunity at the belt.
“I’ve been offered @MAKHACHEVMMA in October,” he wrote alongside a picture of himself looking at the Las Vegas Sphere. “But if @TheNotoriousMMA little pinky toe is ready by Sept, let’s do sphere. Biggest sporting event in history of sports!!!! @RiyadhSeason #ufc306”
He followed that message up by telling Makhachev “Good old fashioned passionate American Mizzou Wrestling beats sambo all day.” However, Makhachev didn’t seem too interested, replying: “You are unreliable dude, one tweet from your master, and you’ll run away. Champ needs real opponent.”
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