Islam Makhachev ‘not interested’ in rematch with Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, seeking to lock horns with Justin Gaethje for UFC gold

Islam Makhachev and his Dagestan crew attended an IBA boxing event in Abu Dhabi, where former UFC champions Conor McGregor and Petr Yan had a humorous face-off in the boxing ring. During the event, Makhachev was interviewed about his upcoming title defense and potential opponents.

Among Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje, Makhachev revealed his preferred opponent for his third title defense. Makhachev’s previous two title defenses were against the same opponent Alexander Volkanovski.

Islam Makhachev wants to fight Justin Gaethje next

Islam Makhachev has potential opponents for his upcoming title defense, but the UFC has not officially confirmed any matchups. Makhachev has consistently expressed his readiness to face any opponent the UFC selects. The likely candidates for his next title defense include Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje.

After Makhachev defended his title at UFC 294 with a first-round TKO over Alexander Volkanovski, Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira were touted as potential opponents. When asked about it Dana White, the UFC CEO was eager for the Charles Oliveira rematch than a fight with BMF champion Justin Gaethje.

However, Dana White has had a change of heart after Arman Tsarukyan knocked out Beneil Dariush with a first-round KO at UFC Austin. At the IBA boxing event in Dubai, Islam Makhachev was asked about Tsarukyan’s comment of vowing to knock the champion out

“He already had the chance to knock me out, he didn’t succeed. He didn’t win a single round.” said Makhachev referencing their first encounter which he won via unanimous decision.

Moreover, Makhachev was asked about his preference for the fight between Tsarukyan and Oliveira. “I’m not interested in rematches,” replied Makhachev citing the fact that he had already won against the two names.

“There is Justin Gaethje who I would say deserved a fight, I think it would be more interesting to fight him,” Makhachev further added proclaiming his preference.

Islam Makhachev vs Charles Oliveira bout rumors

Islam Makhachev and Charles Oliveira first met inside the octagon at UFC 280 when the Russian fighter claimed the vacant lightweight title with a second-round submission over the Brazilian fighter. The two were scheduled to face off in a rematch at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi after Makhachev defended the title against Volkanovski at UFC 284 and Oliveira rebounded with a first-round TKO over Beneil Dariush.

Unfortunately, the rematch did not happen as Oliveira withdrew due to injury. Nevertheless, Dana White was adamant about making the fight happen and there were rumours of the fight to headline UFC 297. However, White came forth and announced Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland for the middleweight title as the main event of the bout.

“The most important thing for us is to have Charles face Islam next,” said Diego Lima, the head coach of Charles Oliveira. Nevertheless, the Chute Boxe Academy head coach does not have a date set for the event but is okay to fight Makhachev before or after Ramadan 2024. These comments came after Makhachev sent a bone-chilling message to his opponents on X, formerly Twitter.

With three contenders in the mix for a title shot, the UFC and Dana White’s preferences are yet to be revealed. The UFC’s inaugural event in Saudi Arabia in March presents a significant opportunity to feature a lightweight bout between Makhachev and Tsarukyan. Additionally, a potential matchup between Makhachev and Gaethje/Oliveira in the summer of 2024 is also a viable opportunity.

Who do you think will be facing Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title next? Leave your prediction below!