UFC Lightweight Islam Makhachev Claps Back at Michael Chandler After Being Called a ‘Dagestani Doxepin’

UFC lightweight, Islam Makhachev, took to social media and fired back at Michael Chandler for comments made by ‘Iron’ Mike. Chiefly, the former Bellator MMA lightweight champion, likened Islam’s fight at UFC 259 to consuming an antidepressant. Islam Makhachev sent out a rather stoic response to Chandler effectively telling him to stay in his lane.

A more measured form of trash talking has long been the staple used by Russian fighters who have invaded the UFC’s ranks. Kick-started by Khabib Nurmagomedov, a wave of talented championship-caliber fighters are making their way towards greatness. Islam Makhachev is certainly one of those major players, and he’s now beginning to get with the promotional side of things.

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Islam Makhachev: A future UFC champion?

The fierce mauler from Dagestan made a massive splash over the weekend with a submission win over Drew Dober at UFC 259. Makhachev made the most of his main card feature and went on tap a durable prospect in Dober. Chiefly, Drew Dober was on a three-fight T/KO streak and Makhachev clinched up an arm-triangle/ Von Flue variation.

Not to mention, he completely dominated every exchange up to that point and his offensive grappling was off the charts. Islam took down Drew Dober at will and left very little room for the American fighter to work an escape. Right from the opening bell, Islam Makhachev’s true potential was on full display.

The biggest hindrance to Makhachev’s career thus far has been his inactivity streak brought in by injuries. Prior to his UFC 259 appearance, Islam fought all the way back at UFC 242 with failed bookings in between. The general consensus is that he’s a lock for becoming a future lightweight champion if things play out right.

However, he’s still far off in the UFC’s rankings and will need to secure a matchup with the big players. Following his win, he called out Tony Ferguson in a fight that is bound to be consequential should it be booked. However, given the way he’s performed, it seems like finding opponents for Islam Makhachev may be a chore.