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Champion Islam Makhachev Warned He “Won’t Last 3 Rounds” With UFC 295 Winner as Team Khabib Gets Challenged by Benoit Saint-Denis

Published 11/11/2023, 11:21 PM EST

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In New York, UFC 295 showcased the lightweight battle between Matt Frevola and Benoit Saint Denis. Frevola, a UFC lightweight staple, climbed the ranks with three consecutive first-round knockout victories, securing a top 15 divisional ranking. A win against the rising Saint Denis could potentially propel Frevola toward a matchup with a top contender. But no one could have expected what occurred in the fight!

Saint Denis, hailed as one of the best French prospects in MMA, had a rocky start in the UFC at welterweight but found success after transitioning to lightweight. With four consecutive victories, Saint Denis earned the chance to challenge Frevola and make his mark in the division. And he has made good on his claims with an incredible finish over the tough, Frevola. But his comments after the fight may hold significance for Team Khabib and lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev!

Benoit Saint Denis puts the UFC 155 lbs division on notice with his performance at UFC 295

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Benoit Saint Denis makes a bold statement in the lightweight division with a head kick knockout at UFC 295, announcing his arrival at the top. The French fighter showcased his skills, escaping a ground scramble with Matt Frevola, and then delivering a powerful head kick that ended the fight in just 1:31 of the opening round.

Saint Denis, now boasting five consecutive UFC finishes, strategically exploited Frevola’s vulnerabilities in the scrambles. Despite early grappling attempts by Frevola, Saint Denis skillfully maneuvered and capitalized on the opportunities.

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Frevola’s attempts to control Saint Denis on the ground failed, leading to a scramble that eventually brought both fighters back to their feet. Seizing the moment, Saint Denis surprised Frevola with an unexpected head kick, sending him crashing to the canvas, and prompting the referee to intervene.

 

After the fight, Saint Denis made a post-fight call-out that has set the entire 155 lbs division to be wary. He stated that he would like to fight Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, or Mateusz Gamrot next. He also wanted the UFC to set up a fight between him and Gamrot for a UFC Paris main event. Even the current UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, and the BMF title as well did not escape his notice!

Benoit Saint Denis has put Team Khabib in his sights for his UFC title journey

Benoit Saint Denis secured a significant victory at UFC 295, catching the attention of top UFC lightweights. With his eyes set on notable opponents, Saint Denis boldly called out specific fighters present at the event, expressing his determination to claim the “BMF” belt and face Islam Makhachev.

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The French lightweight is poised to make his mark in the division and believes it won’t be long before he secures the championship belt. He stated, “I’m going to get that ‘BMF’ belt, then I’m going to get Islam Makhachev. I’m coming for everybody in the lightweight division.”

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His comments indicate the confidence Saint Denis has in his skills. And his highlight reel-worthy performance at UFC 295 will definitely send shockwaves through the division.

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Do you think Benoit Saint Denis has done enough to prove he is ready to challenge the champion, Islam Makhachev? Why or why not? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Written by:

Dushyant Patni

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I am Dushyant Patni, a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. My passion for Mixed Martial Arts started because my father used to be a boxer and a martial arts fanatic. It passed down to me as my first pair of boxing gloves were his old ones! Prior to joining EssentiallySports, I honed my writing and editing skills across various organizations as a writer and an editor.
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Edited by:

Joyita Das