Islam Makhachev is looking like a dominant champion in the lightweight division. Just like his coach Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev will be looking to showcase his talent and cement his legacy in the UFC. This would entail taking risks in taking fights and facing strong contenders. What better contender to face than the current pound-for-pound king, Alexander Volkanovski? His first title defense is against the current featherweight champion in his own backyard down under. His decision to fight Volkanovski is commended by one UFC Legend.
Chael Sonnen demands respect for Islam Makhachev
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Chael Sonnen shared his opinion about Islam Makhachev’s fight with Alexander Volkanovski. He said, “Dana was the last one to know. Dana was sitting cage side while these two made a fight. They deserve credit for that.”
Moreover, he added, “What does Islam possibly get? I know he is risking. He’s not only risking the world championship, he’s risking the perception. If he gets beaten by a guy that he is a three-to-one favorite over who’s never fought within that weight class before, that’s coming up from down here.”
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BOSTON, MA – JANUARY 20: Islam Makhachev of Russia celebrates after his knockout victory over Gleison Tibau of Brazil in their lightweight bout during the UFC 220 event at TD Garden on January 20, 2018 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Furthermore, the ‘Bad Guy’ demanded some respect for Makhachev from the fans. He added, “It’s a huge risk for Islam. Islam deserves your respect for that. But you don’t give him that respect because they didn’t dangle this over us. They didn’t make us wait… “
Islam Makhachev’s plan for the lightweight title reign
Islam Makhachev’s dream is to become a dominant champion like his compatriot, Khabib Nurmagomedov. In an interview, Khabib revealed his plan for Makhachev. He revealed that the new champion plans to fight six title defenses in the lightweight division.
But Alexander Volkanovski will be looking to put a dent in his reign. Volkanovski intends to create history by defeating Makhachev and becoming the double champion (Featherweight and Lightweight). Also, ‘The Great’ is practicing Makhachev’s sambo style of martial arts to combat the Dagestani.
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What do you think about Sonnen’s statements? Should Makhachev be given more respect for his fight against Volkanovski?
Written by
Edited by
Rohini Kottu