The UFC lightweight division is currently in flux, with no clear opponent for Islam Makhachev‘s title. Dana White had initially lined up Arman Tsarukyan for the opportunity, but after his last-minute withdrawal from UFC 311, the UFC CEO made it clear that Tsarukyan was no longer the next in line. Meanwhile, Justin Gaethje is fighting hard for another shot at the title, while Ilia Topuria‘s shift to 155 pounds has added an intriguing wildcard to the mix. With several fighters fighting for position and no clear path, former two-division champion Daniel Cormier has proposed a solution that could bring order to the division.

Cormier feels the UFC should immediately book Topuria vs. Makhachev for the title, while Gaethje and Tsarukyan fight for the next opportunity. “Topuria vs. Islam Makhachev. Yes. Book it. Gaethje vs. Tsarukyan. Book it. Whoever wins fights Makhachev. That’s it, right there. That’s it. Topuria gets the shot. Tsarukyan, Gaethje. Winner gets the title fight. We’re back in line at 155.” This framework establishes a clear hierarchy while keeping all top competitors active.

Makhachev has a new test in ‘El Matador,’ whose featherweight dominance has already made him a fan favorite. Meanwhile, Gaethje and Tsarukyan have the opportunity to settle their unfinished business, guaranteeing that only the most deserving fighter gets a shot at the belt. The biggest issue at 155 pounds is a lack of clarity, which Cormier’s plan directly addresses. The Spanish-Georgian’s decision to go up in weight means he requires a top-ranked opponent to warrant an instant title chance, and Makhachev is the ideal test. Gaethje and Tsarukyan, on the other hand, are both elite contenders, but neither has done enough to earn the title of undisputed No. 1 contender.

Tsarukyan squandered his chance and a Gaethje fight could be his penance. He could alternatively fight Charles Oliveria since their last fight was too close to call. Gaethje has already fought and lost twice for the title – one of which was against Oliveira. So, DC’s plan is missing the crucial element which is ‘Do Bronx.’

White had already voiced anger with Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from UFC 311, indicating that he would have to work his way back up. If Cormier’s idea is executed, the UFC will have a clear way forward rather than waiting for things to work themselves out. An Islam Makhachev vs. Topuria fight may generate a lot of interest, whilst Gaethje vs. Tsarukyan would almost certainly be a war. If the head honcho is seeking the greatest solution to the UFC’s lightweight dilemma, ‘DC’ may have just given him the perfect blueprint. And if he is still looking for a second opinion, another UFC legend has chimed in with his thoughts.

UFC legend provides Dana White with a clear answer for the Islam Makhachev fight

While Daniel Cormier may have given Dana White a clear blueprint for the lightweight division, Michael Bisping has a slightly different perspective on what comes next. The former UFC middleweight champion recently expressed his thoughts on his YouTube channel, suggesting that Islam Makhachev’s next title defense will be against Ilia Topuria. According to ‘The Count,’ Topuria’s rise and desire to advance make him the best candidate. “If you asked me to bet, I think Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria [is next],” Bisping stated, noting Gaethje’s uncertain stance on his next bout and Tsarukyan’s wasted opportunity earlier this year.

However, Makhachev may not be looking forward to this contest. The lightweight champion has repeatedly expressed a desire to go up to welterweight rather than face another featherweight-turned-lightweight. His team has also drawn comparisons to Alexander Volkanovski’s fights, claiming that a fight with Topuria would be similar. However, with ‘El Matador’ relinquishing his featherweight belt and publicly committing to 155 pounds, the UFC may be motivated to rush him to a championship fight.

However, Dana White has yet to clarify that Topuria is next in line. While he hasn’t ruled out a fight, he’s been careful about making it public. If the UFC follows Cormier’s lead and schedules Gaethje vs. Tsarukyan first, Topuria may have to wait. But, if Bisping’s prediction is correct, Makhachev’s next challenger may already be determined—whether the champion likes it or not. What do you think? Whose suggestion do you like better? Let us know in the comments.