A victory over Arman Tsarukyan could etch Islam Makhachev’s name into the annals of lightweight history forever!
Oct 22, 2022; Abu Dhabi, UAE; Islam Makhachev (blue gloves) celebrates with the title belt after defeating Charles Oliveira (red gloves) during UFC 280 at Etihad Arena. Mandatory Credit: Craig Kidwell-USA TODAY Sports
The UFC lightweight division has always been a shark tank of incredible talent. From BJ Penn’s dominance in the late 2000s to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s unstoppable reign, the 155-pound weight class has seen some truly remarkable champions. But now, Islam Makhachev is on the verge of doing something no other lightweight champion has ever achieved!
The occasionally funny yet absolutely lethal warrior from Dagestan stands at the doorstep of history as he prepares to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, where a win would give him an unprecedented fourth title defense.
Also Read: Islam Makhachev Opens Up On The Nate Diaz Altercation Backstage
What Record Will Islam Makhachev Break If He Beat Arman Tsarukyan?
Islam Makhachev’s journey to the top hasn’t been a walk in the park. Coming up as Khabib Nurmagomedov’s training partner, he faced the enormous pressure of following in his mentor’s footsteps.
Since claiming the belt from Charles Oliveira in 2022, Makhachev has been an absolute force of nature. He has already matched the record of three title defenses, putting him in elite company alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, Benson Henderson, and the legendary BJ Penn. His recent victories over Alexander Volkanovski (twice) and Dustin Poirier have shown that he’s not just winning. He is dominating some of the best fighters on the planet.
What makes this potential record even more impressive is Makhachev’s current 14-fight win streak. He is sitting pretty with the third-longest win streak in UFC history, behind only Kamaru Usman (15) and Anderson Silva (16).
Islam Makhachev’s potential achievement is particularly meaningful when fans consider the lightweight division’s history. No one has managed more than three title defenses, which shows just how competitive this weight class is.
Every champion faces a murderer’s row of contenders, and staying on top requires more than just skill, it demands near perfection. At 33 years old, Makhachev isn’t just chasing records; he’s building a legacy that could define this era of lightweight MMA.
(Image Credit: Craig Kidwell – Imagn Images)
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