In the very competitive 155-pound class, Islam Makhachev, the current lightweight champion of the UFC, is making a lasting impression. Makhachev has cemented his position as one of the most powerful fighters in the sport with his impressive victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, where he successfully defended his title for the third time in a row. Makhachev equaled his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov for the most consecutive division championship defenses with this win, which was another noteworthy milestone. Fans were anxiously awaiting his return to the Octagon, but just as his momentum was gathering, an unanticipated injury interrupted his hopes to extend his reign.
The injury that derailed the champ
It was recently revealed that Makhachev had injured his hand in a fight with Poirier. The injury is believed to be muscle-related and has caused serious problems with his ability to defend his title in the near future. Javier Mendez, Makhachev’s coach at the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), provided further insight into the situation in an interview with Submission Radio.
Makhachev’s teacher says
During the conversation, Mendez confirmed that doctors are still evaluating Makhachev’s hand injury. “Yeah, it’s a ligament. And the doctors you know are still seeing him, they say, maybe give us a little break and see what happens. He doesn’t want surgery, I’m not suggesting surgery or, that.” let’s see what happens, you guys.” know,” Mendez explained.
Mendez also said the injury likely happened during the fight with Poirier, although Makhachev did not bring it up during the match. While the injury couldn’t have been worse, since the UFC was reportedly planning a fight between Makhachev and no. 1 contender Arman Tsarukyan swears for UFC 308 in October
A cautious approach to camp
Despite the pressure to keep the momentum going, Makhachev’s team is taking a cautious approach. Mendez insisted that Makhachev would not fight until he had fully recovered. “We have to make sure he’s healthy and it’s the right situation. One thing Islam won’t do, he won’t fight pain, he won’t fight. He’ll fight anyone, anyone the UFC puts in front of him, though.” one thing he doesn’t do.” Going to sacrifice his health to go lose his title because he didn’t fight when he was ready,” Mendez said.
Arman Tsarukyan’s answer
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan, who shares history with Makhachev, is eager to step into the Octagon, but only if he is likely to win the title. Tsarukyan, who lost to Makhachev in his 2019 UFC debut, has since built an impressive 4-fight winning streak, including a victory over former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. He believes his next fight should be full belt, whether for the provisional title or against a fully recovered makhachev.
What’s next for the lightweight division?
While the narrow crack waits in anticipation, uncertainty surrounding Makhachev’s injury makes the title picture fluctuate. Will Makhachev recover in time to defend his title, or will Tsarukyan get his shot at temporary gold? The MMA community has an edge, and only time will reveal the next chapter in this fascinating story.
