Islam Makhachev Reveals 3-Fight Plan, Calls out Justin Gaethje for UFC PPV
UFC champion Islam Makhachev has finally cleared the air on his plans to defend his lightweight throne.
In a Tweet on January 10, Makhachev called out BMF champion Justin Gaethje for a June 8 PPV showdown. Makhachev then targeted the winner of Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan for a fight in November at Madison Square Garden. After that, Makhachev remarked "February 2025 vs anybody Inshallah."
"June 8 UFC PPV vs. Gaethje, November UFC MSG vs. Oliveira/Arman, February 2025 vs anybody Inshallah," Makhachev remarked.
A bout with Gaethje seems to have the most footing, since "The Highlight" hasn't had a fight booked since knocking out Dustin Poirier in July 2023. Gaethje has also called for a throwdown with Makhachev several times on Twitter.
As of yet (Jan 10), the UFC hasn't announced any PPVs after UFC 300 on April 13. Makhachev originally remarked that he would like to fight in March before Ramadan started, but those plans appear to have fallen by the wayside. Regardless, the announcement is good news for the lightweight title, which has had only one native lightweight fight since late 2022.
Since acquiring the belt, Makhachev has only defended against Alexander Volkanovski, the featherweight champion coming up in weight. A victory over Gaethje or a repeat victory over Oliveira or Tsarukyan would further legitimize the Russian fighter's legacy and get the division moving.
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