By the conclusion of the first UFC PPV of the year, the lightweight division is still basking in the glory of Islam Makhachev. It wasn’t just another win for the Dagestani champion, it was a dominant statement. A proclamation that addressed those who dared to question Dagestan’s dominance after the upset in the 135lbs co-main event title fight. But here’s the next question in line, who’s next for the champion? And more importantly, who can possibly challenge his reign?

Michael Chandler, a man who never holds back his thoughts, has some ideas. His tweet after UFC 311 was brief, but it carried weight. “Charles vs Islam has to be next. Professionals.” No fluff, just business. But what makes ‘Iron’ so sure that the Brazilian is the next man in line for Makhachev? What’s the idea behind his bold stance?

Let’s quickly think about where he is coming from. Chandler’s confidence in this matchup isn’t purely about Charles Oliveira’s skills, it’s about the stakes. Let’s face it, the lightweight division is brimming with contenders, and Makhachev’s rise brings in the question, of whether there’s anyone who can truly give him a run for his money.

Now, ‘Iron’, who has had his taste of most of them at the top of the division, is expected to have a clear perspective. But even after taking two losses to Oliveira, Chandler believes he could beat Oliveira “nine times out of 10.” Surprising and confusing, right? So can we count on his matchup skills?

“I am not happy with my performance” Chandler had said after their UFC 309 rematch. “Obviously, I’ve lost to him twice now. But I just am so unhappy with the performance.” Now, hold on a second. What’s going on here? Is Chandler’s tweet a true reflection of his belief in the matchup, or is it a mix of frustration and his desire to see a more competitive challenge for Makhachev?

Is a rematch with Charles Oliveira the perfect challenge for Islam Makhachev?

Though Oliveira’s return to the Octagon after his knee injury might be a little later than expected, it hasn’t dashed his hunger. But is he the most intriguing challenge for Islam Makhachev? Sure, we could throw names like Arman Tsarukyan into the mix, but Tsarukyan’s recent back injury could take more time to recover from than just bouncing back from a fight.

Right? And Oliveira’s journey to the top, from being on the brink of being forgotten to becoming lightweight champion, is a story that still captivates. And he is making it clear that he’s next in line. After UFC 311, the Brazilian confidently declared, “It was a great fight… but I’m next and he knows that. The lightweight champion is called Charles Oliveira.” So, does this fiery claim spark the interest we’re all waiting for?

Coming to the reigning champ, he is now one win away from tying Anderson Silva’s legendary 16-fight win streak. If he pulls it off, Islam could cement his name among the sport’s all-time greats. And the Dagestani isn’t sitting still, either. He did bring to light that his sights are not just on the current division. The champ is eyeing the welterweight division for new challenges as he told Daniel Cormier, “I’m tired of giving somebody a rematch. I need the second belt, Belal Muhammad there. We will see.”

What does Dana White think? “Absolutely,” being his response, it is not a path we can ignore while considering the reigning champion’s next bout. Now coming back and considering Chandler’s tweet? It for sure adds more fuel to the fire. The lightweight division’s future is in flux, and we are questioning if Oliveira deserves the shot, or if is it time for Makhachev to move on and face a new challenge. What do you think? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!