Islam makhachev after victory in UFC 294. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
MMA veteran, Josh thomson pointed out the greatest threat to the reign of Islam makhachev in the UFC lightweight division (up to 70,3kg). In an interview with the podcast 'Weight In', the former Ultimate cast member Justin gaethje as a risky opponent for the pupil of Khabib Nurmagomedov in a possible confrontation.
“Of all, the hardest fight for him (Makhachev) is Justin gaethje. You can say 'no' to (Islam's) wrestling, and I understand. However, I will say this: Islam has tendencies to take exaggerated risks in striking and he cannot afford to do that with Justin. And his (Gaethje's) wrestling isn't just about defending takedowns. (…) Justin is not a fighter who falls victim to the clinch for long. He's good at breaking and getting out of the clinch. It's good to keep you away from that area and let go of his hands. In 'dirty boxing', uppercuts. He has the power to unleash the blow that can erase you. It is a very dangerous fight for Islam. It’s very dangerous,” Thomson said.
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Former interim lightweight champion and current holder of the 'BMF' belt, Gaethje is a candidate for a title fight against Makhachev. Today, the North American occupies second place in the category, behind only Charles of the Bronx and the champion, Islam.
Holder of the throne since 2022, the Russian has successfully defended his title twice. In his opportunities, the athlete overcame Alexander Volkanovsky, 'king' of the featherweights (up to 65,7kg.) who, on occasions, sought to win the second belt in the company.
Quoted by Thomson, Gaethje is Makhachev's for their next clash. In recent statements, Khabib's pupil admitted his lack of interest in rematches, such as a challenge against Charles of the Bronx, and sees Justin as his 'ideal rival'.
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