Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, is on the brink of making history at UFC 311. With a victory over Arman Tsarukyan, he could become the first lightweight champion in UFC history to defend the title four times. But amidst the pursuit of records, Makhachev recently revealed a personal ambition that ties back to his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov: a dream fight that never came to fruition against Tony Ferguson.
The fight that eluded Khabib and Makhachev
During an interview with streamer Adin Ross, Makhachev reflected on the highly anticipated matchup between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson, a fight that was booked five times but never materialized due to a series of injuries and complications. Ferguson, at the peak of his career, was seen as Khabib’s toughest test, riding an impressive 12-fight win streak.
Makhachev revealed that during one of Khabib’s injuries, he asked his manager for the chance to step in and fight Ferguson. “My dream was to fight this guy at that moment,” Makhachev explained. “Tony at that time was a very good athlete, very good fighter. More than a 10-fight win streak in the UFC.”
However, the fight never happened, and Ferguson’s career has taken a sharp downturn. The former interim lightweight champion is now on an eight-fight losing streak, leaving fans and fighters to wonder what could have been had the fight occurred during Ferguson’s prime.
Ferguson’s uncertain future and potential move to GFL
Ferguson’s recent social media activity has sparked speculation about his next move. While he has teased an upcoming fight announcement, it remains unclear if it will take place within the UFC. Many believe Ferguson could join the Global Fight League (GFL), a new team-based MMA promotion launching in April.
Former UFC fighter Kevin Lee, now signed with GFL, has expressed interest in facing Ferguson once more. “The one that interests me the most is Tony Ferguson,” Lee shared in an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show. “We’ve had a great fight for the UFC championship. That’s something a lot of people can get behind, and that’s a fight that I really, really want.”
Whether Ferguson can revive his career in a fresh promotion or continue his downward trajectory remains to be seen. His decline has left the dream fight with Makhachev as a distant memory, one that fans will only be able to imagine as one of the greatest “what-ifs” in MMA history.
UFC 311: Breaking records and building a legacy
As Ferguson’s career winds down, Makhachev’s star continues to rise. At UFC 311, Makhachev will have the chance to surpass the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, BJ Penn, and Benson Henderson, all of whom share the record of three lightweight title defenses. A fourth successful defense against the dangerous Arman Tsarukyan would cement his status as one of the division’s all-time greats.
Despite the historic opportunity, Makhachev has remained focused on his performance rather than the accolades. “Records, all this stuff—it’s nothing for me,” he told Shakeil Mahjouri in a recent interview. “Khabib is here to help us to be better than him, to push us, to help us. I just want to keep my belt.”
What’s next for Islam Makhachev?
Makhachev’s dominance at lightweight has sparked speculation about his future. At 33 years old, he is entering his athletic prime, and analysts believe he could soon pursue double-championship status. Potential matchups against middleweight contender Dricus Du Plessis or welterweight stars like Belal Muhammad and Shavkat Rakhmonov have been floated as opportunities to further solidify his legacy.
With a 14-fight win streak in the UFC, Makhachev has established himself as a fighter capable of adapting to any style. His elite grappling, improving striking, and remarkable fight IQ make him a well-rounded and formidable champion. If he continues on this trajectory, Makhachev could not only dominate the lightweight division but also leave an indelible mark across multiple weight classes.
Redefining lightweight dominance
Makhachev’s ability to consistently defeat top-tier opponents has positioned him as a generational talent. His meticulous approach to training, coupled with guidance from Khabib Nurmagomedov, has molded him into a fighter who excels in every aspect of MMA. Analysts believe his grappling-heavy style, combined with his ever-improving striking, could make him one of the most complete fighters in UFC history.
As he prepares to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win would not only secure his place in the record books but also solidify his reign as one of the most dominant champions the lightweight division has ever seen.
The legacy ahead
For fans, UFC 311 represents more than just another title defense—it’s a pivotal moment for the lightweight division. Makhachev is not only chasing records but also setting a new standard for what it means to be a UFC champion. His humility and focus on legacy over accolades resonate with both fans and fighters, making him a compelling figure in the sport.
While the dream fight with Tony Ferguson may remain an unfulfilled chapter in his career, Makhachev’s journey is far from over. Whether he continues to dominate at lightweight or ventures into new weight classes, one thing is certain: Islam Makhachev is redefining greatness in mixed martial arts, and the best may still be yet to come.
