Ali Abdelaziz, the outspoken manager of UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, has made waves with his assertive declaration regarding his client’s capabilities in the octagon. Makhachev, with a formidable record of 26-1 MMA and 15-1 in UFC, is set to step into the cage once again against Arman Tsarukyan on January 18 during the main event of UFC 311. Their rematch comes after Makhachev’s earlier victory over Tsarukyan in 2019, marking this upcoming bout as a pivotal moment for both fighters.
Abdelaziz, who is known for his high praises and confidence in Makhachev, considers him not just a champion but the best pound-for-pound fighter in mixed martial arts (MMA) today. His fervent belief reflects Makhachev’s evolution as an athlete and his exceptional skill set. Arguably, Abdelaziz’s comments extend beyond the lightweight division, suggesting that Makhachev could even be a tough challenge for current UFC light heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira. This assertion signals the confidence that surrounds Makhachev’s versatility and athleticism across weight classes.
With the upcoming rematch against Tsarukyan, it’s essential to consider the experience factor. Their first meeting in April 2019 showcased a young Tsarukyan in his UFC debut, whereas Makhachev has since evolved into a formidable titleholder. Abdelaziz does not shy away from acknowledging Tsarukyan’s potential, calling him an “absolute beast” and expressing belief that he will one day wear championship gold. However, he insists that Tsarukyan’s time has yet to come, implying that age and experience play a critical role in the fight game. In contrast, Makhachev’s relentless growth, technique evolution, and fight IQ are what set him apart from his opponents.
The psychological dynamics of rematches are complex. Makhachev’s confidence from previous victories and his relentless training regimen juxtaposed against Tsarukyan’s hunger and determination could produce a compelling narrative in their clash. While fighters can often learn and grow from prior encounters, an athlete like Makhachev, already battle-tested and continuously improving, possesses an inherent advantage.
Abdelaziz is not hesitant to delve into fantasy match-ups, noting the potential clash between Makhachev and Pereira. While Pereira’s striking power is undeniable—he has the ability to knock out anyone in the world—Abdelaziz firmly believes in Makhachev’s strategic prowess. He posits that Makhachev’s grappling skills would be the key to overcoming Pereira’s striking arsenal. According to Abdelaziz, Makhachev’s ground game, honed through rigorous training and competition, would likely see him control and submit Pereira if faced in the octagon.
This projection not only exemplifies Makhachev’s aptitude but also illustrates the complexities of MMA as a sport. Every fighter has their strengths and weaknesses, and matchups often lean heavily on style contrasts. While Pereira’s striking can be a fight-ending weapon, the narrative surrounding Makhachev’s grappling presents a compelling counter-argument. This discussion enhances the overall intrigue surrounding Makhachev’s capabilities and what they mean for future matchups across different weight classes.
A Spate of Achievements and Comparisons
Abdelaziz’s assessment extends to a wider commentary on the pound-for-pound rankings, particularly challenging UFC president Dana White’s position that Jon Jones sits atop this list. He argues that Makhachev’s record—having finished seven of his last eight opponents, including defeating the previously ranked pound-for-pound champion—is more impressive than what Jones has accomplished recently. By pointing out that Jones faced fighters with limited wrestling backgrounds, including some who are past their prime, Abdelaziz elevates Makhachev’s achievements as deserving of recognition at the pinnacle of the sport.
This discourse raises the question of what constitutes greatness in MMA. Is it the caliber of opponents, the way fights are won, or the context of each athlete’s career? Abdelaziz suggests that while Jones is undoubtedly a legend, the merit of Makhachev’s skills and his ability to consistently finish fights make a strong case for his supremacy.
Islam Makhachev stands on the precipice of proving his worth as an unparalleled force in MMA. As important matchups loom on the horizon, including his rematch against Tsarukyan and possible future face-offs against elite opponents like Pereira, the narrative surrounding his legacy is becoming increasingly fascinating. With the support and confidence of his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, Makhachev is set not only to defend his title but to solidify his status as a potential all-time great in the sport of mixed martial arts. The unfolding drama of UFC 311 will undoubtedly be a watershed moment, shaping perceptions of not just Makhachev but the entirety of the lightweight division.