The controversy surrounding the first title defense of Islam Makhachev doesn’t seem to die off. While the lightweight champion stood tall before the prolific challenger Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, the accusations of UFC star Dan Hooker stole the shine off his limelight. Since then, the Dagestani champion has been at the center of the deliberations of the MMA community.

The allegations that shocked the MMA world also reached the ears of the fighters, and a question of the impact on their psyche is also muted. However, the #4 ranked lightweight fighter Beneil Dariush claims himself an exception to the development, as he remains unaffected by the indictments. Also, the American fighter expressed his doubts about the lightweight kingpin’s earnestness.

The 33-year-old appeared on Submission Radio as he opened up about the recently concluded UFC 284. Further, he talked about his upcoming fight against former champion Charles Oliveira and gave his on thoughts The Ultimate Fighter 31 featuring Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler. The California resident who is a win away from booking an Octagon date with the current champion also disclosed whether the recent charges levied against Makhachev would be in the back of his head.

Dariush suggests the non-affect of the accusations against Islam Makhachev

The 22-4-1 record holder discarded the hypothetical effect and, in addition, gave the champion the liberty to exercise his free will. Moreover, he also pointed out the difficulty of testing in difficult terrain such as Dagestan.

Thus, he said, “I couldn’t care less. You could take whatever he wants, uh, it ain’t gonna make a difference, you know. Like you could, like, I don’t even think they test them in Dagestan. I’m pretty sure it’s very difficult to get into Dagestan.”

Following this, Dariush again asserted his stance as he gave his opponent a free hand with one condition. He expected Makhachev to turn up at the fight.

Therefore, he concluded, “So it’s not like I’m, you know bro; I don’t care. Take whatever you want. Do whatever you want. Just show up fight day and let’s see how this fight goes.”

Dariush last fought Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 280 and extended his win streak to 8. He faces ‘do Bronx’ next on May 6 at UFC 288.

Read More: Nate Diaz Reacts to Massive “Incriminating” IV Blunder by Khabib Nurmagomedov & Islam Makhachev’s Manager Amidst UFC 284 Controversy

What do you think of these statements by UFC star Beneil Dariush about champion Islam Makhachev? Do you believe Dariush can prevail over the lightweight champion? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch This Story:  Alexander Volkanovski’s Coach Reveals a Depressing Incident That Almost Led to the Retirement of the Great