Islam Makhachev is the pound-for-pound king, and that is well deserved. But one thing many fans sleep on about Makhachev is his hilarious nature. Regarding trash talk, Islam Makhachev prefers the subtle burn over bombastic rants. The reigning UFC lightweight champion isn’t one for theatrics or over-the-top callouts. Makhachev showcased this skill in his latest one-liner about Dustin Poirier.Â
Makhachev recently dismissed Dustin Poirier‘s grappling prowess ahead of their UFC 302 title fight. A cold line was delivered with trademark stoicism from the 32-year-old champion. Makhachev claimed that he would embed the ‘Diamond’ in his belt. He was referring to Dustin Poirier’s nickname.
His nickname – ‘Diamond’… I have to go first June, take the ‘Diamond’ and put on my belt.
Islam Makhachev via Pound 4 Pound podcast
Islam Makahahev’s confidence in his wrestling and grappling abilities is well-founded. He trains under famed coach Javier Mendez. He is also a student and training partner of the legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. It’s an environment that has forged the Dagestani’s smothering wrestling game. But his standup skills are no joke, either. His last fight against Alexander Volkanovski ended in a brutal head-kick KO.
Still, discounting Poirier’s skills altogether would be unwise. The Louisiana native may struggle when fights hit the mat. However, he consistently finds ways to drag elite opposition into deep waters through sheer toughness and relentlessness. The two would meet in the Octagon on June 1, deciding the fate of the lightweight division.
Islam Makhachev willing to push back Arman Tsarukyan fight for Conor McGregor
Islam Makhachev’s focus may be squarely on his UFC 302 title defense against Dustin Poirier. However, the lightweight champion’s gaze has already drifted towards bigger opportunities. Specifically, it is a lucrative showdown with former two-division champion Conor McGregor.
Islam Makhachev open to fight Conor McGregor (via Imago/ Sports Illustrated)Makhachev stated he’d be open to facing McGregor sometime after June. He revealed that he would be open to fight McGregor before turning to grant Arman Tsarukyan a hard-earned rematch in October or November. This is what Makhachev said:
Of course, I will fight him. Brother, when I will fight next? October or November [against Arman]. I can fight August or September with McGregor [too].
Islam Makhachev via Pound 4 Pound podcast-Advertisement-
Makhachev has reiterated wanting to stay active this year. Already, he has fought only once every eight months. He fought Volkanovski at UFC 284 in February. Eight months later, he fought Volkanovski again at UFC 294. Since then, he has not fought. As such, he remains open to the idea of remaining active. Of course, Makhachev must first get past the ever-dangerous Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. It is a task he isn’t taking lightly despite downplaying the American’s grappling skills.
