UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev Criticizes UFC 300 Title Matchups
Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, didn’t hold back in expressing his discontent towards the upcoming title matchups at UFC 300. His frustration stemmed particularly from the booking of Justin Gaethje against Max Holloway, deeming it “a useless fight for a useless belt.”
In an interview with MMA Junkie, Makhachev voiced his disappointment, emphasizing that the Gaethje vs. Holloway matchup holds no significance for the lightweight division. He argued that Gaethje, being a deserving contender, should have been lined up to face him for the title instead.
According to Makhachev, the lightweight division has contenders like Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira, whom he has already defeated, leaving Gaethje as the most suitable challenger. He underscored Gaethje’s recent performances, indicating that the time was ripe for him to contend for the championship.
“Makhachev Calls Gaethje vs. Holloway at UFC 300 ‘Pointless’ for Title Race”
Makhachev, who eyes a return to the octagon in June, questioned the rationale behind matching Gaethje against Holloway, considering the latter’s previous featherweight title reign. He highlighted the risk Gaethje faces in potentially losing his shot at the title, while also pondering the consequences for Holloway in case of defeat.
The champion proposed an alternative scenario where he would face Gaethje, while Holloway could square off against another contender, Ilia Topuria, ensuring meaningful matchups for both divisions.
However, with the current lineup set for UFC 300, Makhachev finds the impending Gaethje vs. Holloway clash devoid of significance, both for himself and the lightweight division.
