Islam Makhachev won’t say no to an opportunity to defend his lightweight title against Conor McGregor.
McGregor is currently coaching The Ultimate Fighter season 31 opposite Michael Chandler, with both fighters expected to battle at the end of the season, which is under production and will broadcast between the end of May and August. The fight will likely take place at welterweight, but it’s likely that McGregor may fight for the lightweight title if he beats the former Bellator champion.
Islam Makhachev On Conor McGregor
If that happens, Makhachev won’t say no to an “easy money” fight against McGregor, he said while speaking to BT Sport.
“Conor chose Chandler,” Makhachev said. “Chandler lost on purpose because if he beat a couple of guys it was never going to happen, versus McGregor. Of course [I think he lost on purpose to Justin Gaethje] He fights like crazy, like he comes from the streets. That’s why they make the fight. [McGregor] does not deserve [a title shot] if he beats Chandler or some of the guys. But if UFC want, why not? Make some good money. Let’s go. I’m just waiting for call. When the UFC calls me and when they put someone in front of me, I will be ready.”
Makhachev is coming off a hard fought win in his first title defence against Alex Volkanovski at UFC 284, where he was pushed to his absolute limit. Ideally, the reigning champion would like to face the winner of Charles Oliveira vs Beneil Dariush at UFC 288, with the winner of Justin Gaethje vs Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 also being an option.
Who do you think Islam Makhachev should fight next?
