Islam Makhachev (bloody elbow)
Following his dominant victory against Bobby Green, Islam Makhachev claimed that he is next in line for the title shot as per UFC president Dana White
At the UFC 49 Vegas main event, Islam Makhachev reminded the world that there are levels to this game and he is truly at his prime. His first-round TKO victory against Bobby Green took his streak to 10 and it’s evident by now that the only fight that makes sense for him is a title shot.
Makhachev patiently circled around Green in the initial moments of the fight, and waited for the right opportunity to shoot for a takedown. He initiated the clinch with Green and transitioned into a Russian tie snap, but Green defended the initial advances effectively. However, the relentless chain wrestling of Makhachev proved too much for Bobby and he yielded to a double leg attempt by the Russian and almost immediately gave up his back. Makhachev finished the sequence through ruthless ground and pound.
Following the aftermath of the main event, Makhachev confirmed to Megan Olivi of ESPN, that UFC president Dana White spoke to his teammate Khabib and guaranteed a title shot for him next.
He said, “I just smashed my all four opponents. For win streak, I have this last 11 months, and [Dana White] just called [Khabib] and say I am gonna fight for the title next.” When asked about a potential date for the fight, Makhachev said, “Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi, I’m gonna come home soon.”
Javier Mendez spoke to Submission Radio about the lightweight title picture and also said that he won’t be surprised if Conor McGregor got an immediate title shot once he returns
Javier Mendez has become known in recent times for churning out imposing champions out his famed AKA gym. The rising star amongst this group of exceptional talent is Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev’s longtime coach Javier Mendez recently spoke to Submission Radio and expressed his concern that Makhachev might be leapfrogged.
He said, “That’s part of the game, you know. He [Conor McGregor] carries the big numbers, so whatever the UFC decides. I’m expecting anything can happen with that guy that has the power to do that. Do I like it? Absolutely not. But do I have a choice? Absolutely not.”
Speaking about the current state of prizefighting, Mendez added, “To me, the rankings are bullst. They’ve always been bullst. They’re still bulls**t. So, I don’t really care about the rankings.”
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