Makhachev opens the door to a possible rematch against Charles in the UFC

Ruler of the UFC lightweight (70 kg), Islam Makhachev will put the belt on the line for the fourth time against Arman Tsarukyan, in January, in California (USA). Because he was dominant in the category, the Russian started giving revenge to the other members of the category. So much so that the division champion, after facing the Armenian again, is already planning a hypothetical reunion with Charles Oliveira.

In an exclusive interview with Ag. FightMakhachev made a point of expressing his respect for the Brazilian and opened the door to a possible rematch against him, if he beats Tsarukyan again. According to the Russian, Charles deserved his prominent position in the UFC by being a high-level and exciting fighter in action.

The veteran is a former champion of the category, he is the fighter with the most wins via fast track, submission and bonuses in the history of the league. Therefore, Makhachev, aware that the Brazilian beat Michael Chandler again, now in a dominant way, in his recent fight and remained firmly number two in the UFC lightweight ranking, not only praised him, but also mentioned him as a future opponent.

“He is one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, he always gives the fans good fights, like he did against Chandler. The fans love him and I respect him. I want to apologize to all Brazilians, because I took his belt, but Maybe one day I'll get a rematch and we'll fight again. If the people and the UFC want it, I have to do it. He's a dangerous guy. You always have to be alert. He has great grappling skills. If you blink, it finishes. He is good at striking, at grappling, he has good skills”, declared the athlete.

Makhachev's MMA record

Islam Makhachev, 33 years old, has established himself as the best lightweight fighter in the UFC. Currently, the Russian is the champion of the category, leads the weight-for-pound ranking and has 14 consecutive victories. During his career in the company, the athlete was seen as a kind of new Khabib Nurmagomedov, his friend, due to his fighting style and dominance in the Octagon. His most important triumphs were over Alexander Volkanovski (twice), Arman Tsarukyan, Bobby Green, Charles 'Do Bronx', Dan Hooker, Drew Dober, Dustin Poirier, and Thiago Moisés.