“It’s Going to Be Gaethje or Dustin”: Shutting Down Charles Oliveira’s Title Hopes, Islam Makhachev’s Coach Backs “Bada**” Beneil Dariush Over Ex-UFC Champ

UFC’s lightweight division does not have a clear title contender as of now. However, this fact is about to change this Sunday! At UFC 289, former champion Charles Oliveira faces Beneil Dariush in the co-main event. While this fight may not be an official decider for the next title challenge, it will surely give fans a clearer picture of what’s about to happen next.

Champion Islam Makhachev has defended his lightweight title once at UFC 284 against Alexander Volkanovksi. Fans are expecting him to make the second defense in October when UFC visits Abu Dhabi. Recently, his coach Javier Mendez said a few unexpected words about Makhachev’s next challenge!

Coach Javier Mendez doubts a title shot for Charles Oliveira

In an hour-long podcast on his YouTube channel, Mendez discussed the future lightweight title challenger. First, Mendez started out by expressing his admiration for Beneil Dariush. Moreover, the coach acknowledged Dariush’s exceptional skills and said that the MMA community should not overlook him. Going a step further, the coach also expressed that he personally wants to see Dariush win and challenge for the title because he deserves it.

“He’s very good man! Beneil is very good everywhere. Everybody keeps ignoring this guy, they shouldn’t be ignoring this guy you know. This guy’s a bad**s man, he’s got a great record, I want him to win because I just feel he deserves it.”

Addressing the possibility of Oliveira winning, Mendez had different opinions. He revealed his uncertainty about the Brazilian fighter’s chances of receiving a title shot even if he triumphs over Dariush. According to Makhachev’s coach, ‘Do Bronx’ does not have the drawing power to make the PPV big.

“Charles, I’ll be honest with you, I don’t know if we’ll get Charles even if he does win. Because, you know, it’s all based on what the UFC looks at the algorithm of who’s going to get the most money for. Charles winning is not going to be enough I think.”

What if Charles Oliveira wins? Answers Javier Mendez!

According to the former ISKA kickboxing World Champion, Oliveira would have to win another fight to earn a title shot. Further, he believes that in this scenario, Justin Gaethje or Dustin Poirier would get a title shot. Gaethje and Poirier face each other for the BMF title at UFC 291.

Read More: “You Want a War, a War Is Coming”: “Hungry” Charles Oliveira Issues Warning to Beneil Dariush Ahead of Their Fight at UFC 289

Alternatively, the Brazilian fighter might land a title shot opportunity just by defeating Dariush if he is able to cut an exciting promo, according to Mendez.

“It’s going to be Gaethje or Dustin that’ll get the shot you know if Beneil doesn’t win. If Charles wins, then good for him too and then Charles will probably have to fight one more time. Or who knows maybe Charles does a great promo and the UFC gives him the shot.” Who do you think is the next lightweight title challenger? Do let us know in the comment box below.

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