Islam Makhachev’s recent injury severely disrupted the UFC’s schedule for upcoming events. Originally scheduled to defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan in October, the UFC lightweight champion is currently facing extended time on the sidelines due to a serious ligament injury in his hand. The injury forced Makhachev out of the highly anticipated UFC 308, leaving a huge void on the fight sheet and turning the UFC tournament into a mess
Proposed by Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier, also known as ‘The Diamond’, has offered possible solutions in response to unexpected issues. Poirier, the top seed in the lightweight division, is willing to step in and fight Tsarukyan, but his positioning is crucial. In an exclusive interview with a source, Poirier said, “Will Arman (Tsarukyan) keep waiting for Islam? I don’t know when Islam will return. I saw a sign that she might need surgery. Yes, I definitely like (an interim title fight).” Poirier’s is based on a fight for the provisional title, leaving him to challenge Tsarukyan for the provisional championship while Makhachev recovers
Makhachev’s Uncertain Return
The severity of Makhachev’s injury has raised concerns about his ability to return to the Octagon in 2024. Reports suggest he may need surgery Makhachev, which could lead to a long layoff Makhachev’s head coach Javier Mendez reiterated concerns as a Dagestan fighter is not a completely healthy competitor until This uncertainty about whether it should happen next year puts the UFC in a tough spot, because they have to keep the lightweight division active and it is excitement for fans.
UFC 308’s Revised Fight Sheet
The UFC has made changes to the UFC 308 card after Makhachev’s injury affected the original lineup. Dana White confirmed that the event will now feature a highly anticipated main event between undefeated featherweight champion Ilya Topuria and BMF champion Max Holloway in addition to a highly anticipated rematch between Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker on the card so the ho. However, this change has caused some behind-the-scenes confusion and has fans wondering what effect it will have on other scheduled fights.
Potential Impact at UFC 307
The lineup changes for UFC 308 have also raised questions about the schedule for UFC 307. Ariel Helwani reported that the original main event of Makhachev vs. Makhachev has been pulled. The Tsarukyan has gone a long way, making some difference in the lineup for UFC 307. Fans were originally hoping to see a fight between Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria at UFC 306 or 307. However, with the new development, UFC 308 around that fight, which could leave UFC 307 with a void that needs filling.
The Suspension of Tsarukyan and Its Prospects
Complicating matters further, Arman Tsarukyan is presently serving a nine-month suspension issued by the Nevada State Athletic Commission because of an altercation he had with a spectator during his training prior to UFC 300. However, if he apologizes, there’s a chance his ban might be lowered. In order to fill the hole created by Makhachev’s injury and provide an exciting matchup, the UFC may think about scheduling Poirier vs. Tsarukyan for UFC 307 if Tsarukyan’s ban is reduced. This hypothetical situation would guarantee that the UFC presents thrilling matchups and sustain fan enthusiasm.
