UFC 302: Islam Makhachev Talks GOAT Aspirations, Dispels Staph Infection Rumors

Islam Makhachev doesn't consider himself a GOAT fighter, yet.

UFC 302: Conor McGregor Cooks Dustin Poirier, Islam Makhachev in All-Time Rant

A fighter's most coveted achievement in the UFC is double-championship status, holding two titles in separate divisions simultaneously. The list of champ-champs contains only four fighters: Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Henry Cejudo. Makhachev plans to add his name to this list.

"I can be [the greatest fighter ever to compete], I know," Makhachev told Kevin Iole on May 29. "We [can] talk about this after when I take the second belt. Because to be in the best fighter of all the time, you have to do some more, you know? I feel I can."

Makhachev Shoots Down Staph Infection Rumors Ahead of UFC 302

Fans have expressed concern about the UFC 302 headliner after promotional images revealed a blemish on Makhachev's leg that resembles a staph infection. This flesh-eating bacteria has affected many UFC fighters in the past, and the image prompted scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, including Conor McGregor.

Conor McGregor goes OFF on Islam Makhachev 😳

“This inbred however lives with Staph. This team is infested… He still subs Dustin in the 1st.”#UFC302 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/1EoxXr4LZm
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 29, 2024

UFC 302: Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier Weigh-In Live Stream Results

When asked about the rumors at the UFC 302 press conference, Makhachev assured fans not to worry, claiming, "Nothing is bothering me."

"Don't worry guys I have [had a very good] training camp. Nothing bother me and I will be ready 100 per cent Saturday night."
Islam Makhachev / UFC 302 presser

Makhachev fights Dustin Poirier in the main event of UFC 302 on June 1.

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