Gilbert Durinho surprises by choosing the toughest opponent for Islam Makhachev; find out why.

Durinho focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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While Islam makhachev With no opponent or confirmed date for his return to the world's most famous octagon, several prominent figures in the sport continue to speculate about who would represent the toughest challenge for the current welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg). In this context, Gilbert Durinho, which faces Mike Malott this Saturday (18) at UFC Winnipeg, he came forward to talk about the future of the category in an interview with the US website 'MMA Fighting' this Thursday (16).

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According to the Brazilian, even though Morales presents a challenge due to his knockout power and physical strength, Makhachev could possibly defeat him after some time. On the other hand, the situation could be different against Ian Gary e Kamaru Usman, his former adversary.

"Morales is enormous, but I believe that eventually Islam will manage to control him, tire him out, and finish him off in the end. I think that..." Ian Gary e Kamaru Usman These are very difficult struggles for Islam makhachev "And they're not easy at all," he stated.

Gilbert Burns says Kamaru Usman and Ian Gary are much tougher fights for Islam makhachev than MichaelMorales

“Morales is huge, but I do eventually believe Islam will be able to control him, make him tired, and get a late finish. Ian Gary and Kamaru Usman are very… pic.twitter.com/nlLyyUrafh

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 16, 2026

According to Dana White, Makhachev is expected to defend his title for the first time in August of this year. Recently, the UFC officially announced via its social media that it will hold UFC 330 in Philadelphia on the 15th of the month.

Gilbert Burns has already fought for the UFC belt.

K. Usman (left) greets G. Durinho (right) after victory in the UFC 258. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Despite not being in good form, Durinho did manage to compete for the category's belt against Kamaru Usman In February 2021, despite a good start, he ended up being knocked out by the Nigerian Nightmare early in the third round. Besides having competed for the title against the former champion, the Brazilian also had him as a training partner for years in the former Blackzillians.