Islam Makhachev Favors Gaethje Fight Over Rematches vs. Oliveira, Tsarukyan

Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight king Islam Makhachev would prefer adding new names to his resume than taking on rematches.

Surging contender Arman Tsarukyan recently announced his arrival at the top of the 155-pound division with a brutal KO win over Beneil Dariush at UFC Austin on Dec. 2. While Tsarukyan’s subsequent demand for a title shot was acknowledged by Dana White, Makhachev believes the Georgian has to pass another test in impressive fashion first.

Asked about Tsarukyan’s prediction of a first-round KO, Makhachev noted that he had won all three rounds against “Ahalkalakets” in their initial encounter back in 2019.

“Well it was a good knockout to be honest. After that fight I think he said loudly that he had won the top [ranking],” Makhachev told Ushatayka. “Well, he is approaching the title chance I would say… He already had the chance to knock me out. But he didn’t succeed. He didn’t win a single round. Let him train more, he’ll grow up. If he pass one more fight confidently then the UFC leadership will give him this fight. Why not.”

Another option for Makhachev in the crowded lightweight title scene is a rematch against former champ Charles Oliveira, who he defeated via submission at UFC 280 to claim lightweight gold in October 2022. However, the champ would prefer defending his strap against a new opponent over either potential rematches. He is currently eyeing Justin Gaethje for a clash at UFC 299 in March.

“To be honest, I’ve already told I’m not that interested in rematches,” Makhachev said. “Because if you want to win someone in a good way, you have to add new names. There is Gaethje, who I would say deserved a fight. I think it would be more interesting to fight him. I think in March, maybe – most likely, yes, at the number event [UFC 299].”

In his ideal world, Makhachev would become a double champion before calling it a career.

“The second belt is the fight of a dream,” he said. “This is what motivates me at the moment… The ideal ending [to my career would be] to win both belts, to defend both belts.”