Recently, Khabib Nurmagomedov had a war of words with Justin Gaethje over the UFC lightweight title fight. Now Khabib has relented, Gaethje used to be Islam Makhachev.
The UFC lightweight champion is now held by Charles Oliveira. Most recently, Oliveira was able to defend the winning belt against Dustin Poirier at UFC 269 on Sunday (12/12) yesterday.
Before the duel Charles Oliveira vs Dustin Poirer, the UFC lightweight class was ‘noisy’. It was the result of a war of words between former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje.
Justin Gaethje, who at that time was in second place (now in first place after Poirier lost to Oliveira), felt he had the right to fight for the next UFC lightweight championship belt.
That was not approved by Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabib feels that Islam Makhachev, who is also his cousin, is more deserving because he has a record of nine consecutive victories in the UFC.
“Islam has won the last nine matches and he is the most deserving to advance as a title challenger,” Khabib wrote on his social media.
“My three defeats were against the UFC champions. Islam only defeated opponents in 14th and sixth place. Stay humble champ and queue, Beneil Dariush is also waiting,” said Justin Gaethje on his social media.
Read more about Khabib and Gaethje’s war of words at the following link.
In an interview with ESPN, Khabib Nurmagomedov eased the ‘drama’ between himself and Justin Gaethje. Khabib relented!
“UFC has decided, Justin Gaethje will next face Charles Oliveira. Yes, we have to agree on that,” he said.
“Islam will next face Benail Dariush which may be in February. If Islam wins, then he has 10 consecutive wins and it is certain that he will advance in the race for the title,” he added.
Islam Makhachev (Dok. UFC, Zuffa LLC/Jeff Bottari) |
Khabib Nurmagomedov continued, competition in the UFC lightweight class is getting more exciting. Charles Oliveira is at his best and Justin Gaethje can’t be underestimated either. Khabib, will focus on preparing Islam Makhachev as his successor.
“Islam will be the next UFC champion, I’m sure of that. But now, the competition is tough,” concluded The Eagle.
 Justin Gaethje (AP/Corey Sipkin) |
(aff/bay)
.
