Undeserving of BMF Strap, Champ Islam Makhachev Gets Put Down by Justin Gaethje in Favor of Nate Diaz and Charles Oliveira, Days Ahead of Dustin Poirier BMF Clash

Hold onto your hats, folks, because in less than a week, we’re about to witness a showdown for the ages with the BMF title up for grabs. After nearly 3 years since Nate Diaz vs Jorge Masvidal, the symbolic title with be on the line for Justin Gaethje vs. Dustin Poirier at UFC 291. Moreover, the winner of the fight is probably going to earn a title shot as well.

Recently, Justin Gaethje appeared in an interview with Shak MMA, where he discussed his upcoming bout in detail. But before that, the host put up an interesting question in front of ‘The Highlight’. He asked Gaethje to name his dream opponents in a fight where the BMF title would be on the line. Answering that, the former UFC interim champ had some interesting responses.

Justin Gaethje makes an exciting list of dream fights

As always, Gaethje didn’t hold back with his candid responses. The former UFC interim champion’s list was intriguing and filled with notable names from the lightweight and featherweight divisions. Gaethje first mentioned Max Holloway, recognizing his exceptional skill set and exciting fighting style.

“I’ll say Max Holloway”, he said. Next up was Charles Oliveira, who earned praise for his consistency inside the Octagon. “Charles Oliveira, you know, he’s pretty consistent”, Gaethje added.

Read More – “Number One Thing That Will Help Oliveira” – How Dustin Poirier Can Help Charles Oliveira to the Islam Makhachev Title Shot

However, ‘The Highlight’ seemed hesitant about including Islam Makhachev, acknowledging his impressive winning streak but questioning if he fit the mold of a BMF fighter. “I wouldn’t say Makhachev necessarily goes in there. I mean he wins but I don’t think he’s the type of fighter that we’re looking at when we talk about the BMF belt”.

Gaethje entertains the idea of facing another exciting UFC featherweight!

Further, the 34-year-old showed respect for Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal, acknowledging their BMF status. “Nate Diaz, Jorge Masvidal have to go up but they’re gone so that’s not gonna happen”, he said.

However, one of the most unique matchups that fans never thought of was suggested by the host. He asked Gaethje about the idea of fighting the former title challenger Yair Rodriguez. To this, Gaethje had an optimistic response.

“Yeah, I think so. Yeah, he’s crazy athletic, that kid!”, he said. With such a list of dream opponents, the UFC 291 fighter made it clear that he’s eager to take on the toughest and most exciting fighters the UFC has to offer to prove his own BMF status.

Watch this story: WATCH: Charles Oliveira Drops Tom Cruise’s Iconic Quote After Getting 19th Bonus at UFC 289