Is it time for Islam Makhachev to walk away from the Octagon? That's the bold claim from Joaquin Buckley, and it's a fascinating perspective on the current landscape of the UFC.
Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, made a strategic move, vacating his title and venturing into the welterweight division. He quickly made his mark by defeating Jack Della Maddalena to claim the welterweight belt. Now, he's setting his sights on a legacy fight against former champ Kamaru Usman.
Buckley, who experienced a loss against Usman in June, believes Makhachev should consider retirement if he defeats "The Nigerian Nightmare." He suggests that if Usman wins, he'll likely move up to the 185-pound division to challenge Khamzat for a rematch. Buckley's argument is that if Makhachev wins against Usman, he'll have achieved a remarkable feat: solidifying his legacy at lightweight, becoming a double-champ, and defeating a true GOAT. This would be a career trajectory mirroring Jon Jones's success.
Buckley further speculates that Makhachev might not be a natural fit at 170 pounds, and this could be exposed against fighters like himself, Ian Garry, or Michael Morales.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Makhachev's potential move to welterweight and a possible fight against Usman raises several questions. Is this the right move for Makhachev? What are the potential risks and rewards? Could Makhachev's legacy be better served by staying at lightweight, or does the challenge of a new weight class and a fight against Usman offer more?
The welterweight division is stacked with talent, including undefeated fighters like Shavkat Rakhmonov and Michael Morales, as well as Ian Machado Garry and Carlos Prates, who have all secured significant wins recently.
What do you think? Does Makhachev have more to prove, or would a win against Usman be the perfect ending to an already impressive career? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
