Ali Abdelaziz and Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the UFC’s lightweight division
Islam Makhachev has been untouchable over the last 6 years. Since a defeat against Adriano Martins at UFC 192, way back in October 2015, Makhachev has not lost a single fight.
He is currently on an 8-fight winning streak, mauling opponents with ease.
A steady climb to the top has seen him break into the top 5 of the lightweight rankings. He is now a couple of wins away from getting a shot at lightweight gold.
With UFC 267 fast approaching, Makhachev will be looking forward to seeing off the ever-ready Dan Hooker. A crucial matchup for the Russian.
Elsewhere, Makhachev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz spoke to TMZ in an interview and made a bold claim that Makhachev was better than his predecessor Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Here is what the Dominance MMA CEO had to say about Makhachev:
“I think he’s going to be one of the greatest fighters ever. I think he’s a better version of Khabib. I truly believe he is. He’s not now, but he can be, and I think he’s a future world champion, for sure.” [via BloodyElbow]
Dan Hooker is a warrior. It is hard knocking him out. He is long and tall for a lightweight. His striking and reach are his strengths.
Makhachev will be hoping that his superior ground game gets him past the Kiwi.
Hooker is coming off a mighty quick turnaround. Only last month he fought Nasrat Haqparast.
More MMA news
Follow our dedicated MMA page for instant MMA news and updates