“I Could Be Wrong on That..”: Islam Makhachev’s Coach Snubs Charles Oliveira While Naming the Toughest Opponent for the UFC Champ Among the Top 3 Lightweight

As the excitement builds up, UFC fans eagerly await the moment when the lightweight title will be defended once again. The last time Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion stepped into the octagon was at UFC 284 in February. In a thrilling fight against Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev emerged victorious via a unanimous decision, solidifying his dominance.

Next, the upcoming UFC lightweight challenger is probably going to be out of – Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, and Dustin Poirier. Oliveira proved his excellence at UFC 289, winning via a spectacular KO against Beneil Dariush. On the other hand, Gaethje and Poirier face each other at UFC 291 for the BMF title and a potential title shot.

Recently, Islam Makhachev’s coach Javier Mendez appeared in an interview with Submission Radio, where he talked about a lot of interesting topics. One of the most intriguing segments came when he was asked about the toughest opponent for Makhachev amongst Oliveira, Poirier, and Gaethje.

Javier Mendez names the toughest opponent for Islam Makhachev

Mendez knows all three of the next possible title contenders very well. He trained Makhachev for Oliveira for his title fight at UFC 280. Further, Mendez also worked with Khabib Nurmagomedov when the ‘Eagle’ faced Poirier and Gaethje.

When answering the question, Mendez carefully weighed his words before responding. Acknowledging the immense skill and toughness possessed by all three competitors, Mendez leaned towards Justin Gaethje as the toughest challenge. With Gaethje‘s formidable kicking game, punching power, and ability to absorb punishment, the coach believes that this matchup could prove to be the most arduous test for Makhachev.

Read More – Hours After Charles Oliveira Stunner, Dana White Lets Out Concerning Update on Islam Makhachev: “He’s in Medicals”

“They’re all such tough competitors. I’m thinking maybe Gaethje might be stylistically. Because you know, he’s a great kicker and he’s got good punching. He can take a good punch.”

Mendez calls Dustin Poirier the ‘Iron Man’

However, Mendez was quick to acknowledge the undeniable resilience and endurance exhibited by Dustin Poirier. Dubbed him the “Iron Man”, Mendez acknowledged Poirier‘s ability to endure punishment and maintain a relentless pace until the final bell.

“I could be wrong on that (referring to his choice of Gaethje as the toughest)  for sure you know because Dustin is an ‘Iron Man’ type guy. He holds it until the last minute you know we’ve seen that before. I’m thinking Gaethje but I could be wrong.”

Watch This Story – Charles Oliveira Goes “Super Saiyan” Mode Again for His Comeback Fight at UFC 289

The world can only guess who Islam Makhachev’s next opponent will be. After UFC 291, the MMA world can maybe get a clearer picture. However, the UFC can drop a bombshell announcement for the lightweight title any second, so be ready!