Daniel Cormier poses with Islam makhachev and lightweight belt. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Personal friend of Islam makhachev and one of the UFC's main commentators, Daniel Cormier was sincere when analyzing the next season of the lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg). On his YouTube channel, the MMA veteran explained a complex scenario to his teammate by listing possible opponents. The Russian recently admitted that he intends to hold three clashes in 2024.
“We know that Charles Oliveira (From the Bronx) will be the first. (…) Let's say Makhachev wins in March. Who will be second? Justin gaethje. Gaethje has already made it clear what his intention is: 'wait for the title fight'. I know Justin. He feels he has a favorable style to face Makhachev. He believes he learned situations from the defeat against Khabib (Nurmagomedov) and that he can make a difference against Makhachev. Don't forget that Gaethje won the first round against Khabib (2020). It’s not something many achieve,” Cormier said.
See too
Finally, Daniel listed who he believes will be Islam's last opponent, if the Russian goes through the initial challenges.
“Finally, I believe we have Dustin poirier. I think that Islam makhachev will have the opportunity to have a dangerous year. Facing the best lightweights we've seen in the last 10 years. Face Charles, Justin and Dustin. All in the same season”, he concluded.
Lightweight champion since the end of 2022, Khabib's pupil has two title defenses. This year, the athlete had two triumphs against Alexander Volkanovsky, leader of the featherweight division (up to 65,7 kg.) who had unsuccessful attempts to win a second belt in the UFC.
You need login To comment.