Shavkat overrated… B-LOL not a single tear for you, Team Khabib has greater ambitions
Usman Nurmagomedov also coming to the UFC this year to rule LW
Umar fighting Merab for the title at BW
Clean sweep
I predict dese tings
“I think the [winner of Belal vs. Shavkat]. Because Topuria not make sense,” Makhachev recently told Shakiel Mahjouri. “For what? For belt, or what, money? I have money. I don’t need. I need the second belt.”
Makhachev’s first two title defenses were against then featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev has since defended his strap against Dustin Poirier via fifth-round submission at UFC 302 in June 2024. While Makhachev wants to move up to 170 pounds, he has also made clear that it’s unlikely to happen if Muhammad remains champ due to their close relationship.
Meanawhile, Topuria won the title with a knockout win over Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February last year and defended it by knocking out Max Holloway for the first time ever at UFC 308 in October. “El Matador” has cited a lack of fresh contenders when making a case for moving up to lightweight. However, with contenders like Movsar Evloev and Diego Lopes waiting the wings, it’s possible that the Spaniard will not vacate his throne immediately.