Islam Makhachev has firmly stated his disinterest in the BMF (Baddest Mother F****r) title, emphasizing his commitment to traditional championships. As the reigning undisputed UFC lightweight champion, Makhachev will be observing the upcoming UFC 291 event on July 29, which includes the much-anticipated rematch between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje for the BMF title, from the sidelines.
Makhachev’s reluctance towards the BMF strap is rooted in his unwavering dedication to the pure essence of the sport. As a current UFC champion, he feels that the BMF belt, typically associated with 155-pound contenders, is something he prefers to steer clear of.
Islam Makhachev shares views on the BMF belt
During a recent interview, Islam Makhachev expressed his strong disapproval of the UFC’s BMF title, which was introduced in 2019. The BMF title, short for Baddest Motherf****r, was initially awarded to the winner of the Jorge Masvidal vs. Nate Diaz fight at UFC 244. Originally intended as a one-time event, it is now on the line once again as Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje headline UFC 291.
When discussing the belt with Daniel Cormier, Makhachev shared his thoughts on the matter:
“Brother, honestly this belt is for the bums you know. First time who fight for this belt? Diaz and Masvidal, the people who can never be champion you know, they give him some belt. Guys, be happy, fight for BMF.”
Makhachev continued to discuss how both Poirier and Gaethje have fought multiple times for the “real” belt, but since they couldn’t secure it, Dana White created another belt for them to compete over. The Dagestani fighter also expressed that if he were to win the BMF belt, he would not hold onto it.
Will the winner of the BMF bout face Islam Makhachev for the UFC title?
In this weekend’s UFC 291 event, Justin Gaethje will have a rematch against Dustin Poirier for the “Baddest Motherf—ker (BMF)” belt at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. However, Gaethje’s primary focus remains on the true prize: the UFC Lightweight title currently held by Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev is scheduled to face Charles Oliveira at UFC 294 on October 21, 2023, in Abu Dhabi. Some were surprised that the UFC didn’t wait for Gaethje vs. Poirier to take place in Salt Lake City before confirming Oliveira as Makhachev’s next challenger for the 155-pound strap.
This decision could be because neither Poirier nor Gaethje was willing to commit to a 13-week turnaround to be adequately prepared for a fight in the United Arab Emirates.
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