Justin Gaethje says Islam Makhachev doesn't deserve to fight for the lightweight belt and explains why

J. Gaethje and I. Makhachev recently traded public barbs. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

For Justin gaethje, there is still no reason to Islam makhachev be the next challenger for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3kg). Defending his 'position', the former interim champion said that the Russian still does not deserve to fight for the world title and stated that this would undermine the 'integrity of the sport'. The statement was given in an interview with 'MMA Junkie'.

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“He (Makhachev) faced number 14, went to fifth place in the rankings and fought with Dan Hooker, who accepted the fight at the last minute. There is no world where, in the integrity of this sport, he would deserve or justify doing this (fighting for the belt),” Gaethje said.

The American stated that he deserves to be the next to fight for the 70,3kg belt and explained his reasons.

“People respect us because it's not like boxing, because the best fights happen. I have to fight the winner of Charles Oliveira and Dustin poirier to justify the integrity of this sport, and I'm comfortable with that. I don't need to do anything else”, concluded 'Highlight'.

Current number two in the lightweight rankings, Gaethje defeated Michael chandler in the unanimous decision of the judges in the UFC 268. The American comes from five victories in his last six fights in the organization and has a record of 23 triumphs and three setbacks.

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